James A. Peterson, age 88, of Lake Charles, La., passed away peacefully on Wednesday, Feb. 15, 2023, surrounded by those who loved him.
He was born to parents Tyler and Nellie Peterson on June 16, 1934, in Belview, Minn. He joined the Army in 1954 and was stationed in Fort Polk, La. He married the love of his life, Mary O’Connor, in 1957 and together went on to have three children. They moved to Westlake, La., in 1967 and made it their home for over 50 years. He was prominently known in the community as a local business owner; he never met a stranger and was known to have a giving heart.
James worked for Firestone Rubber for 15 years. He was a hardworking man and also bought and sold new and used furniture, appliances and antiques. This hobby grew into Westlake Discount Furniture, which he had for 30 plus years.
He previously was a member of Bellview Baptist, First Baptist Church, Westwood Baptist, and New Life Church of Westlake, La. He enjoyed sharing fellowship with those in the congregation.
He is welcomed into heaven by his parents; and his beloved wife of 55 years, Mary O’Connor Peterson.
Those left behind to cherish his memory are his children, Tyler (Teri) Peterson, Debbie (David) Hartman of Lake Charles, La., and Scott (Shawn) Peterson of Moss Bluff, La.; brother, Harold Peterson of Washington State; sisters, Helen (Richard) Krogstad and Pattie Sederstrom of Minnesota; grandchildren, Scott (Kara) Peterson, Kyle (Meghan) Peterson, Eric (Kristen) Peterson of Moss Bluff, La., Mark (Kacie)Peterson, James (Gabrielle) Peterson, Kristi (Brian) Benoit, and Jace (Bri) Peterson of Lake Charles, La., and Vera (Mike) Grill of Pa. He also leaves behind 18 great-grandchildren, as well of a host of others that loved him dearly.
His seven grandchildren, whom he fondly called his “Super Seven” will have the honor of carrying him to his final resting place.
The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Sage Oak assisted living and Heart of Hospice for their kind and generous care of James.
Visitation for James will be held at 3001 Ryan St., Lake Charles, LA 70601, at Hixson Funeral Home Chapel of Peace from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 17, 2023.
Visitation will resume on Saturday, Feb. 18, 2023, from 10 a.m. until the time of service at 11 a.m.
Graveside service will be held at Westlake Memorial following services.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.JEHixson.com for the Peterson family.