Glenn Peterson

Glenn was a caring and charismatic man who was loved and cherished by all he knew. As a teacher and coach for Kearney Public Schools in Nebraska and Air Academy High School in Colorado Springs for more than five decades, he remained true to his calling and to his passion in life.

Glenn Viggo Peterson was born on October 16, 1928 in Gothenburg, Nebraska to Peter and Nellie Young Peterson. He received a bachelor’s degree in Industrial Arts from Kearney State College and a master’s degree in education from Colorado State College. He married Dorothy Bernice Pollat on June 4, 1948 in Cozad, Nebraska. She predeceased him in 2010. Glenn married Hebriena C. Oosthoek of Colorado Springs on November 9, 2013 at the United Methodist Church in Colorado Springs.

“Coach Pete” as he was so fondly called was happiest when working with young people. His greatest joy came from watching generations of students compete and graduate. His diligence and care inspired them to go forward and to follow their dreams. Glenn’s other passion was working and improving his farmland in Nebraska. He spent countless hours with his Nebraska relatives, strategizing creative ways to increase the farm’s earning potential. No idea was too crazy to consider!

Glenn will be remembered for his friendly spirit, kindness, wide smile and for never meeting a stranger.

He is survived by his wife, Ena, who brought him great joy in the last year of his life; his children Constance (Wayne) Yeoman, Kent (Sherida) Peterson and Sandra Cramer. He will be truly missed by his grandson Matthew (Kate) Peterson and great-granddaughter Skylar and by his granddaughter Melissa (Randy) Nelson and great-grandson Tanner. He also leaves behind his two loving sisters Arlene Bates and LaVonne Peterson.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Glenn’s memory to Gentiva Hospice of Colorado Springs.

Memorial service will be held at the United Methodist Church, Colorado Springs on Saturday, December 20, 2014 at 2:00pm.