Derald Peterson

Derald "Dean" Peterson, 80, of Decatur, passed away in his home August 13, 2013. A Celebration of Life will be held 10:00 A.M. Saturday, August 17, 2013, at Brintlinger and Earl Funeral Home. Memorials may be made to the Humane Society of Decatur and Macon County or the Good Samaritan Inn. Dean was born in Decatur, July 23, 1933, son of Mildred F. (Watkins) Peterson and Clark T. Peterson. He was retired from the Norfolk Western Railroad where he started working for the Wabash Railroad in January 1951. He married Irene M. Weiss March 10, 1968. Dean loved animals, enjoyed watching the wildlife, listening to music and talk radio, playing Bingo, drinking coffee and shooting the breeze with his friends at the mall, spending time with his family, and giving to others. He volunteered at the Humane Society of Decatur and supported his wife with her endeavors to help animals. He immensely enjoyed time with his granddaughter, listening and watching her sing and dance as a little girl and recently helping her shop for a car. Through many years, Dean endured many illnesses, and always fought hard for survival, never complaining. He was devoted and loyal to his family, providing care and support for his widowed mother for many years. Dean is survived by his wife of 45 years, daughter, Lori Ann Key, grandson Jeremy Key, and beloved granddaughter, Amanda Key, one great granddaughter, brother-in-law William Weiss, sister-in-law Maureen Key, his dog Coty and cats Frac and Kit Kat, all of Decatur, 18 nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and five brothers and sisters, Ruby Vogel, Darlene Carrow, Bernadine Maser, Clark J. Peterson, and Judith Ann Peterson, and his companion dog of 15 years, Brutus. "
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