HAYS, Kan. – Robert Oliver Peterson, 82, passed away March 5, 2022, in Hays, Kan. He was born Feb. 6, 1940, in Peterton, Kan., located in rural Osage County, and grew up on the family farm there.
Bob attended country schools in Osage County, and graduated from Osage City High School, Osage City, Kan., in 1958.
He joined the United States Army after graduation, and served three tours of duty during the Vietnam War. Bob retired after 20 years of service and relocated back to his hometown of Osage City, where he worked another 20 years for the United States Postal Service.
Bob was united in marriage to LaRita Atchison, Aug. 25, 1961. They had one daughter, Roxanne. Bob is survived by his wife, Rita; daughter, Roxanne and husband, Mitch Bartels, all of Phillipsburg, Kan.; granddaughter, Regan and husband, Zach May, Oberlin, Kan.; and granddaughter, Tatum Bartels, Hastings, Neb.; sisters-in-law, Marylln Peterson and Hazel Atchison; and several nieces and nephews.
Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Roy and Alice Peterson; brother, Roy Peterson; in-laws Joe and Ferne Atchison; and brother-in-law, Larry Atchison.
Bob was very excited to learn he was going to be a great-grandpa this summer. Bob was known for his patriotism and love of country. He was a lifetime member of the American Legion Post 198, Osage City, and was very active before moving to Hays to be closer to family. Bob rarely missed a meeting, parade, bingo nights, pancake feeds, and setting up flags. Bob spent many years serving on the Osage City school board and was a member of the Masonic Lodge. He was also a lifetime member of the VFW. Bob loved the outdoors, particularly spending time fishing and hunting. Bob also had a soft spot for all the family dogs, particularly Annie. Bob was known for his love of ice cream and would never turn down a dish.
Celebration of life memorial services will be 1 p.m. Saturday, March 12, at VanArsdale Funeral Chapel, Osage City, with inurnment to follow at Arvonia Cemetery with full military honors. A luncheon will be held prior to the service at American Legion Post 198, Osage City.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to American Legion Post 198, and sent in care of VanArsdale Funeral Chapel, 107 N. Sixth St., Osage City, KS 66523. Condolences can be left at vanarsdalefs.com.
