It is with heavy hearts yet feelings of peace, we share the passing of our beloved father and grandfather, G. Reed Petersen, on December 10, 2024. After being blessed with well more than 9 lives, he has moved onto his next great endeavor.
Dad was born on November 20, 1944, to caring parents Grant R. and Beatrice Petersen who taught him the value of hard work. He was raised alongside his younger sisters Joan and Carol, with whom he maintained lifelong friendships. In his teenage years, Reed found a love for cars, completely dismantling and rebuilding his VW bug in his parents garage. This passion followed him throughout his life, as he liked to reminisce about his many cars until the very end. Working alongside his dad at Certified Blueprint as a young man, he developed a spirit of entrepreneurship which was a theme woven throughout his professional life.
While working as her apartment pool boy during college, dad charmed Gayle Cornaby, a new schoolteacher from Provo. They fell in love and were married in June of 1966 in the Salt Lake temple and began a life together of adventure and excitement. Dad was eager to show the world to Gayle and did so over the course of their 57-year marriage.
As his family grew, dad set out to create a life full of fun memories and experiences for Gayle and his children. With many to choose from, our fondest will always be of annual trips to California and Lake Powell with friends and family as well as weekends spent skiing in Park City. Ever the optimist, he was known for his driven nature yet relaxed demeanor. Along with Gayle, he was instrumental in creating a home that was welcoming to all and encouraged us to be a friend to everyone. In addition to principles of kindness and generosity, dad taught us the art of a well-crafted excel spreadsheet, how to play a mean game of gin rummy, and how NOT to apply sunscreen.
Perhaps his greatest moments in life came from being “Papa” to his eight amazing grandchildren, who adored him. He delighted in showing up for his grandkids and did everywhere whether invited or not. He took pride in his role as carpool driver to various activities and was never shy about buying treats on the way home. The grandkids’ favorite memories include designating him as the bingo caller at cousins club and later blackjack dealer on family trips. His big heart and fun spirit leave a legacy of love, laughter, and spontaneity that will be fondly remembered.
Reed is survived by his children Bradly Petersen (Sheila), Natalie Boss (Greg) and Gregory Petersen (Brittney), his eight grandchildren, Morgan Seagle (Ben), Sage Petersen, Jonathan Boss, Jasmine Cook (Scott), Benjamin Boss, Stone Petersen, Greyden Petersen, and Sienna Petersen; as well as his sisters Joan Nichol (James) and Carol Petersen. Those welcoming him home include Gayle and his parents.
We express our deepest gratitude to the staff of the Beehive Home of Millcreek for the excellent care of their buddy.
Please join us for an open house celebrating Reed’s life on Friday, December 20th from 6:00 p.m.- 8:00 p.m. at Wasatch Lawn Mortuary, 3401 S. Highland Drive. A family graveside service and interment will be held on Saturday, December 21st.
