Orville R. Peterson

Orville R. Peterson 88 died peacefully on April 3, 2018. Orville was preceded in death by his mother Hildegarde Peterson, brother Lambert, father Paul, brother in law Robert E. Winters and sister Doris Winters and nephew Robert J. (Cherie) Winters. Survived by niece Anne (Dave) Terrell, Barbara Orlebeke, nephew Dale (Joyce) Winters, and Gregory (Karen) Winters. Several grand and great grand nieces and nephews. Orville graduated from Grand Rapids Central High School in 1948. Played football on Centrals 1947 City and State Championship team, Co. Captained Central’s 47- 48 basketball team. Orville served with the U.S. Army in Europe during the Korean Conflict. Orville A.K.A. “Whitey” worked for several gas distribution companies, Somerville Construction, Jim Van Ess Pipeline, and Sub Surface Construction Company. Orville was a member of Laborers International Union of North America, Local #1165 and #355 National Gold Card member for 52 + years. Orville had been a life time member of Bethlehem Lutheran Church. Serving his congregation as a head usher for twenty consecutive years. Through his knowledge of the outdoors of Michigan’s field’s and streams, his many successful adventures are documented. Always keeping in mind the true meaning of good conservation and respect for woods, waters and wild life. He took pride mentoring his outdoor skills to his youthful proteges and sharing the good times together with all his many friends. Orville was also an avid bicyclist, biking 35,000 miles after retiring. Per his wishes, Orville will be cremated. Memorial Visitation for Orville will take place on Tuesday April10, 2018 at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 250 Commerce Ave SW #100 Grand Rapids, MI 49503 starting at 6 p.m. until the time of the Memorial Service at 7 p.m. Private burial will take place at a later date. To honor Orville’s life those who wish, may make a memorial donation to Bethlehem Lutheran Church, or to Rest Haven Homes and Kent County Millennium Park.