Obituary of Ronald Edward Peterson

Ronald (Ron) Edward Peterson, age 69, passed away peacefully on November 27th, 2015 surrounded by his family. He was born on October 19, 1946 in Madison, Wisconsin. He is survived by his wife of 17 years, Carol Peterson; his mother Iris Peterson; father Rodney (Rod) E. Peterson; daughter Karen Johnston and husband Howard; son Roy Peterson and wife Connie; sisters Barbara Herrera and husband Sisto, Joann Pounders, Linda Roberts and partner Lee Trimble; grandchildren Jordan, Lauren, Riley, and great-granddaugther Cadence; nieces Jessica, Jamie, Lauretta and Emily; nephews, Alex, Trevor, Andrew and Logan. Ron graduated from Sandia High School and pursued a career as a master machinist. He spent 40 years machining precision parts and performing inspections and quality control for several local manufacturing companies. In addition, he performed work in his home shop for various government laboratories in New Mexico and other states. Ron was associated with the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Sciences, and the volunteer group "Friends of Paleontology" from 1997 until his death. His father Rod had discovered a site containing Jurassic dinosaur bones in 1953, and subsequent surveying, mapping and excavation by volunteers led by Ron and Rod over many hundreds of days, developed the site into what is now known as the "Peterson Quarry". It is presently the only known Jurassic quarry in New Mexico. Ron was a beloved husband, father, brother and friend. He will be greatly missed by all. Cremation has taken place. Memorial Services will take place in the chapel at Riverside Funeral Home, 225 San Mateo Blvd. NE, on Saturday, December 12th, 2015 at 1:00 p.m. Memorial donations may be made in Ronald's name to New Mexico Museum of Natural History Foundation-Paleontology, or any charity of your choice. Cremation Arrangements entrusted to: Riverside Funeral Home 225 San Mateo Blvd. NE (505) 764-9663.