Anna Marie Shirley Peterson, age 88, a beloved resident of Delavan, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully at Lakeland Healthcare Center on November 16, 2023. She was born on September 7, 1935 in Muscoda, Wisconsin to Frank and Cordelia (Bremmer) Sikhart. She married Lyle David Peterson of Richland Center, WI on February 4, 1956.
Anna's life was a testament to resilience, compassion, and unwavering love. She touched the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her, leaving an indelible mark on her family, community, and beyond.
Anna was a devoted wife, mother, and friend. Her warm smile and friendly spirit created a welcoming presence that brought joy to those around her. Throughout her life, she faced both triumphs and challenges with grace and a determination that inspired everyone who knew her.
Anna was passionate about her family and the City of Delavan. Whether it was planning festive celebrations, sewing and tailoring, creating a beautiful home, or spending quality time with her family, Anna found fulfillment in the simple joys of life. She was extremely proud of all of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
In addition to her personal pursuits, Anna was known for her generous and fierce commitment to make her community a better place. Delavan will forever remember her as a pillar of support. If you have ever gone swimming or skating at the Mill Pond, attended Mass at St. Andrew’s Catholic church, or picked up a book at Aram Public library, you will see evidence of her passion for and pride in the community she cherished.
Anna is preceded in death by her husband Lyle Peterson, her parents Frank and Cordelia Sikhart, and her sister Mary Freymiller. She is survived by her children Lisa (Rob) Fricker of Wauwatosa, WI; Christie (Jim) Stark of Stoughton, WI; Joanna (Bob) Seymour of Cedar Falls, IA; Mary Kathryn (Jeet) Chadha of Seattle. WA; Emily (Trevor) Peters of Wauwatosa, WI; Erik (Jennifer) Peterson of Nashville, TN; Sigrid Peterson of St. Louis, MO; and Anders (Amy) Peterson of Middleton, WI, She is also survived by her sister Evelyn Bronowski (Rockford, IL), her grandchildren Sam (Christina) Fricker; Susannah (Patrick) Nichols, Ethan (Lidiana) Fricker, Martha (Ronnie) Opela, Ben Stark, Madeleine Seymour, Walter Seymour, Annie Seymour, Niels Peters, Gaige Peters, Odin Peters, Ivy Peterson, Connor Peterson, Zoey Peterson, and her great-grandchildren Bodhi Opela, Lilah Opela, and Chastene Nichols.
Together, they shared a lifetime of cherished memories that will be held close to their hearts. While her physical presence may be gone, the love and wisdom she imparted to her family and friends will continue to guide and inspire them.
Memorial Services will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Thursday, December 14, 2023 at St. Andrews Catholic Church, 714 E. Walworth Avenue in Delavan. Visitation will be held from 10:00 A.M. until the time of the service on Thursday at the church.
Anna deeply loved her friends and family. They will be invited to join together to share stories, reminisce, and support one another as they remember the beautiful soul that was Anna Marie Shirley Peterson.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Aram Public Library, in Anna's name, reflecting her commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of others.
Anna's memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew her. May she rest in eternal peace, surrounded by the love she so freely gave during her time on this Earth.
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