Dr. Ted Tangwall Peterson passed away from natural causes on Saturday, August 22, 2015. He was born on February 3, 1926.
Dr. Peterson served as an educator for his working life, after earning degrees from Stanford University and the University of Utah, and enjoyed various teaching and administrative positions at Granite School District, including Deputy Superintendent. He was also an active adjunct professor at the University of Utah. He believed in the power of education to change lives for the better. He also held numerous positions in many civic organizations and in his church. Ted was honorably discharged after serving in the United States Army during World War II.
He is survived by Georgia Josephine Bodell Peterson, his wife of 69 years, though they met on a blind date a few years earlier. Ted and Georgia share a love of music. Ted played the trumpet for many years in the dance band he started in high school. During the War he played in the CCC Pipers band. Ted and Georgia were active in improving government. After she was appointed to the Utah State Legislature in 1969, he served as her campaign manager for five successful elections until she was appointed as a Utah State Tax Commissioner. They both attended many national Republican conventions and functions as delegates, and he always supported her in all of her political and community endeavors. He gave her everything she ever wanted, and more. The love they share is legendary, and will last through the eternities.
He is also survived by a son, Craig E. Peterson, a daughter, Elizabeth E. Peterson, and five grandchildren, Chari Farr (Jason), Chris Evans, Jessica Peterson, Ted Peterson (Paige), and Jennifer Peterson. His grandchildren were special to him, and the family shared many trips and experiences. He taught them the value of work, and his amazing workshop was an exciting adventure to visit. He could repair anything, and did. He is preceded in death by his son, Arthur Ted Peterson, two brothers, Burke Peterson and Bruce Peterson, his father, Arthur E. Peterson, his mother, Eleanora T. Peterson, and his daughter-in-law, Diana Peterson.
Ted befriended everyone he met and had an uncanny ability to make connections with all people. He had a sense of humor that kept family and friends around him laughing for days. His genuine love of humankind is exemplary.
Funeral services will be held at Larkin Sunset Gardens, 1950 East 10600 South, on Wednesday, August 26th, at 11 a.m. Friends may visit the family at a viewing before from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. that morning. Interment will be at Sandy City Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, and in the spirit of Ted's example, spend time with those you love and give a pack of Lifesavers to each of five new friends this week.
