Elmer E. Peterson

Elmer Ewald Peterson, age 88, passed away peacefully on November 15, 2025. Born on April 25, 1937, in Marshalltown, he was the son of Ruth (Anderson) and John Peterson. Elmer grew up near Marietta, where he developed the quiet strength, dedication, and deep love of the land that would guide him throughout his life.

He graduated from Albion High School in 1956. On May 20, 1959, he married the love of his life, Jeanette Poling, at the United Methodist Church in Albion. In 1961, Elmer was drafted into the U.S. Army, serving in the Signal Corps as a radio operator. After completing basic training in Georgia, he was stationed in Alaska, and Jeanette joined him there, where they made many friends and cherished memories during their time away from home. He returned to Iowa in 1962 and continued farming near Marietta—a lifelong dream he faithfully lived out.

Elmer and Jeanette farmed together on the family land for more than six decades and his parents before that. Elmer was a true steward of the land: meticulous, hardworking, and proud of the farm he nurtured. He took great care tending to his many animals and making improvements around the farm. Though he valued his independence, he deeply appreciated any help he received along the way. Among his greatest joys was seeing his grandchildren—especially when they came to visit him on the farm.

The family is deeply grateful to Harmony of Marshalltown for their compassionate care during the past couple of years, as Elmer faced health challenges with strength and dignity.

He is survived by his children, Marylynn (Chuck) Murray of Ely and Dennis (Jennifer) Peterson of Ankeny; grandchildren Luke (Marielle) Murray, Sylvia Murray (Richard Palmer), Jacque Murray (Jack Enright), Alena (Ethan) Heimer, Ellissa Peterson, and Anders Peterson; and great-grandchildren Adeline, Eloise, and Theodore Heimer.

Elmer was preceded in death by his wife of 66 years, Jeanette; and his parents, Ruth and John Peterson. He was also preceded in death by his uncles: Ralph, Harry and Levi Anderson and their spouses.

A visitation will be held at 9:30 a.m. on Friday, November 21, 2025, at Mitchell Family Funeral Home, with a funeral service beginning at 11:00 a.m. Lunch will be provided following the service, with interment taking place at Marietta Cemetery after lunch, where Elmer will be laid to rest beside Jeanette.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Marietta Cemetery Association or the Albion Municipal Library.

Mitchell Family Funeral Home has been entrusted to care for Elmer and his family. For more information and to leave online condolences, please visit www.mitchellfh.com. Ph. 641-844-1234.