James Andrew Peterson

Born to Eternal Life on Thursday, March 7, 2024 at the age of 84. Loving father of Tammy Donahue and Thomas (Katy) Peterson. Proud grandpa of Meghan Donahue, Aydan Peterson, Gabriel Peterson, Devin Schroeder, Claire Peterson and Molly Peterson. Preceded in death by his wife Kay Loomis, sister Arlene Feltz and his parents Elmer and Kathleen Peterson.

“Some people spend an entire lifetime wondering if they made a difference in the world. But, the Marines don't have that problem.”  ― Ronald Reagan

Jim was a proud veteran of the United States Marine Corps.  He carried those Marine Corp values into the rest of his life.  He  had a strong work ethic and embraced challenges head on.  He was a man who could build or fix anything.  He was always eager to share his “handy-man” talents with family and friends, improving their homes, boats or whatever needed a little work.

 Jim was an avid runner.  His running took him all around the country, running countless marathons and even some ulta-marathons.  Some of his favorite races were Pikes Peak, Big Sur and The Marine Corps Marathon.  He passed on his love of running to many friends and family members.  Proudly, he enjoyed a weekly run with his daughter.  

Even greater than his love of running was his love of the water.   From racing to cruising the shores of Lake Michigan, Jim spent much of his time on his boat and at his second home, South Shore Yacht Club.  He loved the solidarity and  peace he found on the water.  He also found great pleasure in the challenges of the unbridled water.  

Jim was fearless and independent. He was a strong fighter, but cancer was stronger.  He is now sailing on a journey to shores that we cannot see. We know that he is free from pain and is floating peacefully in the water of his dreams, welcomed by missed family members and embraced by God’s loving arms.  

Gathering at Christ King Catholic Parish, 2604 N. Swan Blvd, Milwaukee, WI 53226 on Tuesday, April 2, 2024 10AM -11AM. Mass of Christian Burial at 11AM. Luncheon following Mass at South Shore Yacht Club from 1PM-4PM. In lieu of Flowers please consider donating to “Zero Prostate Cancer”  Zerocancer.com ZERO Prostate Cancer Receives Four-Star Rating from Charity Navigator for Seventh Time | ZERO Prostate Cancer (zerocancer.org)