Dennis Lynn Peterson

Dennis Lynn Peterson (age 77) passed away Tuesday, August 6th, 2024, due to natural causes.

Dennis was born November 12, 1946, in Great Falls, Montana to Conrad Peterson and Gertrude Saari. Though our loss is profound, we rejoice knowing that he was welcomed by his eternal sweetheart, Diana Peterson.

He was a beloved husband, father, grandpa, and great-grandpa to a family that loved him, and esteemed him as the patriarch of their family.

Dennis grew up in Great Falls and attended East Middle School, where he met his future bride in band class. He was a proud Great Falls High School Bison who was an exceptional trumpet player and led as the drum major. He could have been a professional drummer with his musical virtuosity. He had an incredible ear of music, and it truly was his passion. You would often find him drumming along to his favorite tunes.

He loved listening to the Eagles, Bruce Springsteen, U2, and any band that his sons played in. He enjoyed watching a variety of sports including hockey, baseball, tennis and golf especially with his grandsons. Dennis also had a special love for animals, particularly his golden retrievers Tanner, Sequoia, and Tucker who always stuck by his side.

Dennis married Diana Kenison on June 27, 1970, and were later sealed for time and all eternity on May 22, 1976, in the Cardston Alberta temple. Dennis and his darling wife spent the early years of marriage living in Lolo, MT. Over the next 10 years, they welcomed two sons and a daughter into their family.

Dennis’ marketing career took him and his family on adventures across the United States, living in different places along the way. They lived in Hawaii, went as far east as West Virginia, and eventually settled for a while in Salt Lake City, UT. He and Diana later relocated back to Great Falls in 2011 to care for Diana’s parents.

Dennis loved the gospel of Jesus Christ. His scriptures were always out and marked to a specific chapter that he was studying. He enjoyed researching his family history and learning more about his ancestors.

Dennis and Diana always made it a point to open their home to their children and grandchildren. Dennis was known for stocking the freezer with tubs of ice cream and Capri-
suns in the fridge. He absolutely loved spending time with his family. He loved sitting in the backyard conversing with his kids and having water gun fights with the grandchildren.

His commitment to his family was immense. He loved sharing stories & memories with his children and grandchildren. He had a one-of-a-kind sense of humor and was always making his family laugh. Making them laugh always lifted his spirits and warmed his heart. He was so proud of his family and loved talking about them. He loved them all greatly.

Dennis was preceded in death by his dear wife (Diana, 2016), his parents (Conrad & Gertrude), and his sister (Carol). He is survived by his children Scott (Kim) Peterson, Bret (Lisa) Peterson, and Staci (Jayson) Gilcher along with his 13 grandchildren and 2 great- grandchildren. A private family memorial is planned for a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Great Falls High Bison Band.

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