Joyce Peterson

Our beloved mother, grandmother, and friend Joyce Evelyn Peterson passed away at the age of 96 at TenderNest Care on August 11, 2026. She is now in paradise with her beloved husband, Chuck. They were a true love story; you rarely saw one without the other.

Joyce was born on April 11, 1930 to Lillian and Ted Magnuson. She would have 3 brothers and one sister to complete their family. Life was tough growing up in the 1930s, which helped develop her resilient, strong-willed personality. Mom graduated high school in 1948 and moved to Fargo with 3 of her best friends to attend business college. During that time, she worked at Northern States Power Company . It was at this time she met Chuck “Denver” Peterson on a blind date, which proved to be a forever love. He was headed to the Korean War 1950-1952, but love letters grew strong and they were married on August 9, 1952 in Sherwood, ND.

Mom and Dad left their families and moved from Fargo to Billings, MT in June 1954. They had their son, Scott, a month later and a daughter, Sheri, in 1957. Because we were not surrounded with family, our family became very close and built lots of friendships. Our Bethlehem Lutheran Church family became a staple where Mom and Dad became involved in everything that served God. Faith was always #1 growing up. Mom and Dad were the best parents/grandparents, where unconditional love and laughter existed. They supported and showed up for any event that we or their grandkids participated in. Dad worked at COP Construction and Mom was a homemaker. When Sheri graduated high school, mom became a “lunch lady” at Washington School for the next 20 years. She always loved kids! Mom loved socializing, baking for family and friends, reading, watching and discussing the news, quilting, and “don’t forget” those afternoon naps!

Mom is survived by her son, Scott (Connie) and their children Joshua (Brook), Travis (Danielle), and Kirsten; her daughter, Sheri Reitz (John) and their children Megan and Joel; her brother, Bob (Ellen); 8 cherished grandchildren, and a “special daughter” Ione Bloom. Mom will be greatly missed by those who loved her!

Mom and Dad were married 69 years at Dad’s passing in 2021. They were in their original home nearly that long until they moved to WestPark Village. Mom lived there for over 5 years until her move to TenderNest this summer. She was blessed by caregivers at both facilities, along with St. John ‘s Hospice. We can’t thank all of you enough for your compassionate care with mom.

A celebration of life is planned for Joyce Peterson at Peace Lutheran Church in Billings at 1:00 on September 19, 2026. Burial will be at Sunset Memorial Cemetery.