Leslie Peterson

RUSSELL — Services for Leslie Peterson will be at 11 a.m. Friday at the Horvath Remembrance Center in Marshall. A recording of the service will be available later at www.horvathfuneralservice.com. Visitation will take place one hour prior to the service, with a private interment at the Russell Cemetery following the service.

Leslie Roland Peterson, aged 80, from Russell, peacefully passed away on Jan. 4, 2025, at Prairie View Senior Living in Tracy due to heart failure. Leslie had resided at Lakeview Senior Housing in Balaton for the past 4 years. Born on Jan. 1, 1945, in Tyler, to Roland and Faye Peterson, Leslie was the middle child of three, with brothers Allen and Richard. He cherished his childhood in a small town, often recalling how wherever Allen was, he’d be sure to follow!

Upon graduating from Russell High School in 1962, he embraced the motto “Great Men Are Scarce, Take Good Care Of Me!” which reflected his modest and unassuming nature. His career in the construction industry, specifically in Drywall, spanned over 55 years, during which he dedicated himself wholeheartedly and made a positive impact on others with his exceptional skills and humble demeanor. He prioritized looking out for his colleagues and instilled in his family the value of a strong work ethic as a key ingredient for long-lasting success and happiness.

Leslie was previously married to Donna Pearcy of Marshall from 1966 to 1976, and they had 3 children: Michael, Wendy, and Melissa. In 1977, Leslie tied the knot with Garnet Minett. The family relocated to Ivanhoe in 1983, and then to the Twin Cities in 1984. Leslie began working at Hay’s Drywall and stayed there until his retirement in 2018. One of his clients in Minneapolis jokingly referred to Leslie as the “Picasso of Drywall” due to his attention to detail, perfectionism, and care for others, a title he neither confirmed nor denied!

Leslie adored his children, devoting himself to ensuring they had everything they needed for future success. He instilled in them an example of sacrifice, striving for excellence, and taking responsibility. Leslie’s circle of friends is extensive, as he is known for his selfless giving and willingness to help others without expecting anything in return. Even when resources were limited, he never hesitated to show kindness and support to those in need or helping others. 

In addition to his work-life, Leslie enjoyed hanging out with his friends, telling stories of the good ol’ days.  He loved collecting baseball cards, collectible cars, knives, and trinkets of all sorts!  His greatest joy was spending time with the Peterson’s in Russell, during the holidays, on the lake and reminiscing!  He cared deeply and appreciated all of the nurses and care units at Lakeview Housing in Balaton, who in his words, “allowed him to live his last years surrounded by those who cared about him and his well-being.”   

He is survived by his wife Garnet Peterson of Russell; brothers Allen (and Judi) Peterson of Russell and Richard (and Carol) Peterson of Russell; son Michael (and Hillary) Peterson of Windsor, CO; daughters Melissa Peterson of Ottumwa, IA, and Wendy Peterson of Ivanhoe; step-children Greg (and Shannon) Rund of Marshall, Tammy Rund of Idyllwild, CA, and Bruce (and Dawn) Rund of Rockford; grandchildren Alexandra Watson of Ottumwa, IA, Jordan Stynski of Tyler, Brandon (and Destiny) Stynski of Marshall, Kelsey (and Cody) Hammerschmidt of Walnut Grove, Emily and Aiden Rund of Rockford, and Adaline Peterson of Windsor, CO; and great-grandchild Cade Hammerschmidt of Walnut Grove.

Leslie is also survived by incredible nieces and nephews: Scott (and Michele) Peterson of Russell, their children Brett and Brittni; Tony (and Shallyn) Dybdahl of Russell, their children Ellie and Kason; Dawn (and Adam) Garbe of Russell, their children Micah and Addi; Shawn (and Christa) Peterson of Russell, their daughter Sara; Melinda (and Paul) Wood of Lennox, SD, their children Noah, Gracie, Sophie, and Ethan; and Jamie Peterson-Long of Minneapolis.

He is preceded in death by his parents Roland and Faye Peterson of Russell, nephew Jacob Peterson of Russell, and step-grandson Aaron Rund of Marshall.

We are incredibly thankful and fortunate for the support and assistance given to Leslie during his last moments. His impact will endure through his warm smile, compassionate heart, and modest words of gratitude. Leslie touched the lives of many, showing that recognition from the world at large is not necessary to leave a meaningful legacy.

Arrangements with

Horvath Funeral Service

Marshall, Minnesota

www.horvathfuneralservice.com