Mary Louise (Ukasick) Peterson

Mary Louise (nee Ukasick) Peterson, 89, of Brainerd, passed away Friday, September 4, 2020 at her home.  A private Mass of Christian Burial will take place at St. Francis Catholic Church on Wednesday, September 9, 2020 at 1:00 p.m.  Friends are invited to view the celebration through the church’s live stream (www.blccnorth.org)  Interment will follow Mass at Evergreen Cemetery in Brainerd.

Mary was born in Minneapolis on December 5, 1930 to Albert and Elinor Ukasick.  She married Vernon Peterson on August 6, 1949 in Minneapolis. 

Mary's faith was paramount in her life.  She was dedicated to teaching her family the importance of prayer and centering your life around God.  Mary found great peace attending daily Mass and setting aside time for prayers, especially the Rosary.  This practice allowed her to be the calm in the storm for her family.  She was the epitome of patience and quiet strength.  Vern credits Mary with keeping him on the right path.  She worked hard and valued her children.  Whether she was spending the day cooking for them during the holidays or discreetly handing one money when they were in need, Mary was generous with her time and assets.  In her later years she would marvel over the pretty flowers that were planted outside or a pretty bouquet of flowers inside.  Mary's children and husband will never forget all the love she shared with them and all the care she gave to them.  She was and always will be remembered and loved by them.

Mary is survived by her husband of 71 years, Vern; 17 children, Joe (Terry) Peterson, Sue Peterson, Betty Peterson, Mike (Vicki) Peterson, John Peterson, Marge (Mike) Goldade, Jenny (Tom) Smith, Harry (Patricia) Peterson, Al Peterson, Gene (Mary) Peterson, Patty (Dan) Sellner, Mary (Keith) Engholm, Lisa (Arturo) Bringas, Lori Peterson, Irene (Mike) Branum, Theresa (Dan) O’Reilly, and Knute (Melanie) Peterson; 61 grandchildren; and 54 great-grandchildren.  Mary is also survived by her sisters, Laura Bambury and Marlene Ukasick and many nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her infant daughter, Jayne; infant granddaughters, Isabella and Alisha; parents; and brothers, Andrew and John.

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