Carl Fredrick Peterson, 81, of Grand Rapids, passed away on December 16, 2025. Born at Butterworth Hospital on July 31, 1944, Carl's life was renewed through a double lung transplant at Butterworth in 2018, and ultimately came to a peaceful close there as well.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Gertrude Peterson, his father, Oliver Peterson, his stepmother, Pearl Peterson, and his elder brother, Rev. Ron Peterson. Carl is lovingly remembered by his wife of 58 years, Elaine Peterson, and his children: Kurt and Sherry Peterson, Kevin and Teri Peterson, and Mark Peterson and Laura Veltman. He was a proud grandfather of seven grandchildren: Alexander, Matthew, Jacob, Tyler, Jackson, Russell, and Avery; and recently delighted in meeting infant great grandson Henry.

Carl worked for over 35 years as a guidance counselor at Forest Hills Central and Forest Hills Eastern High Schools and always enjoyed hearing from former students as they achieved their academic and career goals. He served on the Board of Directors for the National Association for College Admissions Counseling and was a member of the State Bar of Michigan. He was also an active and faithful member of Seymour Christian Reformed Church, serving in a number of leadership and supporting roles over the years.

A memorial service will be held at Zaagman Memorial Chapel on Saturday, January 10, at 11:00 AM, with food and fellowship to follow. Memorial contributions may be made to Seymour Christian Reformed Church or to the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation (https://www.pulmonaryfibrosis.org/).

Carl will be remembered for his kindness, integrity, and deep love for Jesus, his family, and his community.