Iva J. Peterson

Iva Joyce Negu Peterson, 86, passed away peacefully on March 10, 2022. She was the last surviving of twelve Negu siblings. Iva is survived by her husband, Dick Peterson, sons and daughters-in-law, Robert (Bari) Day, Scott (Kellee) Day, step-children, Dan (Mai) Peterson, and Diana (Fred) Holland and preceded in death by David Peterson. Iva had fifteen grandchildren: Britni (Venita), Tynan, Simon, Anna and Ava Day (Robert and Bari); Jaxsen, Ivan, Niklaus, and Nadia Day (Scott and Kellee); Nicholas, Dom and Ivy (Dan and Mai), Jordan and Jeremy Giles and Jenna (Tony) Nardella, (Diana and Fred), She also had seven great-grandchildren.

Iva was born on March 7, 1936 to John and Cornelia Negu. She grew up in Kevin, MT where she attended elementary school with her twin, Eva. Growing up on the family ranch created many of Iva’s fondest memories. There, she and her siblings worked and played hard, were raised to value Romanian discipline, but to also appreciate life and family. She then attended high school in Shelby, where she was proud to be a cheerleader.  She married Bob Day and they later divorced.  She eventually settled in Great Falls.  After her divorce from Bob, Iva met and married her beloved Dick in 1973. Together, they worked to establish Peterson and Associates as a trusted and respected accounting firm until their retirement.  Whether it was horseracing, being with family and friends, or sneaking off to Vegas for a get-away after a long tax season, Iva and Dick enjoyed forty-eight fun and laughter filled years together.

Iva touched lives with her kindness wherever she went. Always the patient listener and the generous spirit, she uplifted all of those around her and helped those in need whenever she could. She counseled countless women through her involvement with Al-Anon and even spoke at a conference about alcoholism and healing, as this was a cause near and dear to her heart. Knowing her kind and compassionate nature, many confided in Iva and sought her guidance as she was blessed with great empathy and understanding.

Iva was also a woman of profound faith. She and Dick read Scripture daily, living with intention of following the Lord’s example. Her infectious smile and laughter radiated toward everyone – family, friends and even strangers. She had the heartiest and purest laugh when recounting stories, and she particularly loved when Dick would tell stories about his childhood or past experiences. A loyal friend, adoring wife, and cherished mom and grandma, Iva loved and doted on everyone in her circle, especially her grandchildren to whom she was affectionately known as Grandma “Phoof”.  She was an incredible cook and artist, creating gorgeous needlepoint works and cozy blankets, patiently teaching her grandchildren to paint and crochet, preparing her famous blueberry pies and carrot cakes, and always cooking dishes her family loved. This world was a much better place with Iva in it. Her light shone so brightly, and she will be dearly missed.

Cremation has taken place.  A celebration of life will be held on March 25, 2022 at The Do Bar from 6:00-9:00 pm.

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