Thomas Wayne Peterson

Tom was born in Minneapolis, MN to Wayne and Priscilla Peterson.

He graduated from Robbinsdale High School in Minnesota and was nominated by Senator Walter Mondale to attend West Point, United States Military Academy. He graduated in 1971, went on to serve in the Army and separated as a Captain in 1979 where upon he moved to Florida.

While at West Point, Tom lettered in baseball and football. During a football game, he suffered a tough knee injury and almost lost his leg. This injury would shape his life and reveal a man who never complained about his pain. He continued to be devoted to the Black Knights (Beat Navy!) and provided post-game analysis to his classmates and was a guest on a Black Knights football podcast.

Tom had many nicknames…Petey, Leader Tom, Coach, Tommy, Tommy Tunes, Pops and Poo Poo.

Tom was an avid hobbyist that included but not limited to shooting, softball and hitting club. He volunteered at the Bay Pines Veteran’s Administration Hospital as an escort, even during the middle of a hurricane. Tom was a member of the Rough Riders fraternal organization and loved being the DJ on their parade float. He was an avid music and trivia lover and combined those things by hosting a Name That Tune quiz weekly on his Facebook page.

Tom is survived by his sisters Sonja (Mike) Christenson, with nephew Ryan and niece Cara and Mary (Dave) Loija, with nephew Jesse. He also remained close to his ex-wife and mother of his children, Sheryl Peterson.

Finally, he was an avid lover of his kids and grandkids. Tom is survived by his kids Thomas “Cass” Peterson, Lindsay (Guy) Clanton and Leah (James) Cade. He considered his greatest blessing to be a grandfather known as Poo Poo to Laura, Caroline and Lizzie Clanton and James and Lily Cade.

Tom will be forever in our hearts and deeply missed.

His Memorial Service will take place at Serenity Funeral Home on Sunday, July 10th, 2022 at 2pm.

Flowers are appreciated, and please consider making a donation to the Disabled Veterans of America in honor of Tom.