Mary Romanie Peterson (DeGrande), aged 87, passed away peacefully into the loving arms of Jesus, at home surrounded by family on June 29, 2024, in Olathe, KS. Mary was born on April 16, 1937, to Julius and Frances (Kill) DeGrande in Lenexa, KS. She was a beloved figure in her community, known for her devout faith, humor, and unwavering love and support for her family.
Mary graduated from Gardner High School in 1955. She married her true love Francis “Loren” Peterson on February 15, 1958, at Sacred Heart, Gardner. She began working at Cramer Chemical and over the years, she worked at various places including Swift and Company, Loring Caves, and as a bus driver for Bonner Springs School District. She also worked at Ben Franklin, where she made many lifelong friends.
Mary and Loren were highly involved in parish and school activities at Bonner Spring's Sacred Heart. She then became a member of St. Paul, Olathe in her later years.
Mary's life was a testament to her love for her family. She was often seen cheering at her children's, grandchildren's, and great-grandchildren's activities, always being their greatest fan.
Mary enjoyed spending time with her friends in St. Theresa’s Circle, The Gardner Girls, and the Ben Franklin Gang.
Mary had fond memories of growing up on the farm. She especially enjoyed her pet pig, Pinky and her love of pigs, cats, deer and hummingbirds continued throughout her life.
She was preceded in death by her loving husband of 37 years, Francis Loren Peterson; her parents, Julius and Frances DeGrande; her brothers, John and Michael DeGrande; niece Katherine DeGrande; and great-granddaughter Cecilia Peterson. Also preceded in death is her best friend and sister-in-law Carolyn Peterson.
Mary is survived by her children, Theresa R. Peterson of Overland Park, KS, Ricky (Maura) Peterson of Kansas City, KS, Ron Peterson of Kansas City, KS, and Lora (Joe) Robinson of Olathe, KS; 14 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren, with one on the way. She is also survived by sister-in-law Florence DeGrande and brother-in-law Charles Peterson, as well as numerous nieces and nephews, some who were Godchildren, family members and friends. Also, Jeff Weller, who held a special place in Godmother Mary’s heart.
Mass of Christian Burial 11:00 a.m. Monday, July 8, 2024 St. Paul Catholic Church 21650 West 115th Terrace Olathe, Kansas. Burial in St. John Catholic Cemetery Lenexa, Kansas. Visitation will be Sunday afternoon 4:00p.m - 6:00p.m. July 7, 2024 at the McGilley & Frye Funeral Home 105 East Loula Street Olathe, Kansas. The Rosary will be prayed at 4:00 p.m. prior to the start of the visitation. Contributions may be made to Kansas Palliative and Hospice Care, or American Heart Association in memory of Mary. Her legacy of love, laughter, and dedication will live on through the many lives she touched.
The family wishes to thank Mary’s healthcare team from Kansas Palliative and Hospice Care for giving Mom the comfort and dignity we so very much appreciate, as well as extending their support to the family.
Condolences may be offered at www.McGilley-Frye.com
