Bruce Thomas Petersen

Bruce T. Petersen passed away on June 12, 2024. He was preceded in death by his parents, Gene and Gen Petersen, and his older brother, Alan Petersen. He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Gayle Pieper Petersen, his son Douglas, daughter-in-law Tammy Petersen, daughter Laura Ferrell, son-in-law Rick Ferrell, and his grandson Luke Ferrell. Bruce’s remains will be scattered at sea at a later date.

Bruce Thomas Petersen was born on August 30, 1939 in Clinton, Iowa. He graduated from Clinton High School in 1957. He joined the US Navy as a radioman. After serving 3 years, Bruce remained a member of the Naval Reserves and attended Clinton Community College where he met his wife, Gayle. They both transferred to the University of Northern Iowa and graduated with teaching degrees in 1964.

Bruce developed a fondness for San Diego area while in the Navy. He and Gayle relocated to Southern California in 1966. They lived in Santa Anna for 9 years. In 1975. They moved to Corona where they lived until they retired.

Bruce taught for Magnolia School District in Anaheim for 32 years. He taught 5th and 6th grades until after he earned a Special Education Credential. Bruce was the secretary and co-president of the Magnolia School District Teachers’ Union for many years. He retired in 2000. He and Gayle relocated to Hemet in 2001. Bruce golfed and took art classes at San Jacinto Community College. He built furniture for friends and family. Bruce was an active member of the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship in Hemet-San Jacinto. He was a huge sports fan, avid reader, and enjoyed camping with friends and family up until the time of his death.

Bruce will be remembered for his warm laugh, sense of humor and gentle ways.