Obituary of Alden Harry Peterson

Dr. Alden Harry Peterson, 81, of Hunting Hills Lane, Boone, passed away April 25, 2017, after an extended illness. He was born March 18, 1936 in Chicago, Illinois, son of Harry Carl and Evangeline (Anderson) Peterson. Closest to Aldens heart was his love of family, Swedish heritage, his church, and profession. He was a member of Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church. Alden often recalled memories of spending early years on the family farm in Pleasant Hills near Wheaton, Illinois. After Wheaton High School, Alden voyaged to Europe and traveled extensively throughout the entire continent visiting most every country. He enjoyed distant places in the world and continued to take advantage of numerous travel opportunities during his life. He was a voracious reader and enjoyed discussing current events and politics. One of his dreams was to see his beloved Chicago Cubs in the World Series, a wish that finally came true in his final year of life. Aldens formal education consisted of Purdue University (BS, MS), the University of Toledo (MBA), and Kent State University (PhD). He chose a career in teaching and spent time at Ashland College in Ohio, Meredith College in Raleigh, NC, and Appalachian State University, 1979-1999. Alden also was a popular professor in the Business Department at ASU. Students in his management classes gained greatly from his knowledge toward their futures. He was an advocate of causes he believed to be worthy. Volunteering to teach classes for inmates at a near-by prison or traveling to Washington, DC to join in the peaceful protest held there after personally witnessing the shooting at Kent State University are among several causes and charities he supported. He was proud of the years spent serving in the National Guard. Alden is survived by his wife, Lynn Wagnon Peterson of the home; three adult children, Patricia (Gregory) Iaccarino of Madison, Wisconsin, Kristine Peterson (William Hupp) of Middleton, Wisconsin, and John Peterson of Todd, North Carolina, as well as a granddaughter, Sarah Peterson of Middleton, Wisconsin. He leaves two stepchildren, Tracey Avant (Maurice Martin) of Golden, Colorado and Scott Avant of Dallas, Texas, and one step-grandson, Benjamin Martin. Also surviving are two sisters, Lois (Richard) Hudson of Richland, Michigan and Marilyn Welichko of Littleton, Colorado. He leaves behind several cousins, nieces and nephews. A memorial service will be held for Dr. Alden Harry Peterson, Saturday, May 13th at 11:00 at Grace Lutheran Church, 115 E. King Street, Boone, NC. Officiating are Pastor John Bollinger and Vicar Sue Lynn White, and Music Director & Organist, Tyler Young. Interment will follow in the Grace Lutheran Columbarium. The family will greet guests at a reception in the Fellowship Hall after the interment. All are invited. The family would like to thank the staff of Medi-Home Hospice and Life Care Center of Banner Elk and especially, Toby Guinn, for their professional and special care of our loved one. Alden once said, I just want to be remembered as a good and decent man. We will always carry your memory in our hearts. Online condolences may be shared at the website www.austinandbarnesfuneralhome.com Austin & Barnes Funeral Home and Crematory is serving the Peterson family.