Obituary: Merton Peter

Merton Edward Peter, 92, of Heron Lake died Sunday, January 6, 2013, at his home. A memorial service will be 2:30 p.m. Thursday, January 10, 2013, at the United Methodist Church in Heron Lake with Pastor Kathy Brandt officiating. Military rites will be provided by Herbert K. Kellam American Legion Post No. 224 of Heron Lake.

Visitation will be from 1:30 p.m. until time of service Thursday at the church.

Merton Edward Peter was born May 19, 1920, on the family farm in Weimer Township, Jackson County, Minnesota, to Ed and Winifred (Herkenratt) Peter. Merton was baptized and confirmed in the Heron Lake United Methodist Church. He attended country school a half mile from his home through the eighth grade. Merton then attended junior and senior high school in Heron Lake until 11th grade, when he began farming with his father. Merton entered the U.S. Army in December 1940, serving in the Philippines, and returned home in December 1945. On June 27, 1947, he was united in marriage to Joyce Gates at Heron Lake United Methodist Church. They continued to live on his family’s farm. Merton passed away at his home on January 6, 2013, at the age of 92 years, seven months, and 18 days.

Merton was a lifelong member of the Heron Lake United Methodist Church. He served on boards in church, Heron Lake elevator, Heron Lake Legion and in Weimer Township. Farming, hunting and bowling were some of Merton’s favorite past times. He always enjoyed a good cup of coffee with his family and friends.

Merton is survived by his wife of 65 years, Joyce Peter of Heron Lake; his daughter, Charlotte (Marlo) Peters of Mountain Lake; his sons, Craig Peter of Heron Lake, Edward (Bardene) Peter of Heron Lake, Stacey Peter of Lakefield; sister-in-law, Alethe “Edie” Peter of Mission Viejo, Ca; six grandchildren, Steve (Julie) Peters, Teresa Cavness, Curt Peters, Heath Peter, Heather Peter and Ben Peter; six great-grandchildren, Janessa and Lexia Peters, Karli and Clayton Cavness, Payten Peter, Madison Peter; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Merton is preceded in death by his parents; infant daughter, Wanda Sue Peter; brother, Curtis Peter; twin sister, Marilyn (John “Jim”) Diemer; and brother, Bernard (Helen) Peter.

Blessed be the memory of Merton Edward Peter.

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