Gordon C. Peterson

Gordon C. Peterson passed away October 5, 2018 at Marlin. He was born November 3, 1929 to Erna and Pete Peterson in Spokane and was an only child. He was raised on the three-generation family cattle and wheat farm. At Marlin, he attended a one-room school and graduated as a valedictorian from Marlin High School. He graduated from Whitworth College, Phi Beta Kappa, with a degree in education and minor in economics. His first job was teaching Social Studies in Harrington. The rest of his career he taught middle school and then moved to the high school in the Coulee City School District. He taught social studies, English, Latin and journalism. In addition, he was senior class advisor, directed school plays and supervised the senior educational trip. Many of his students remember learning and reciting his "infamous" poems and writing term papers. In his English classes he provided a strong foundation in vocabulary, sentence structure and writing. Outside of school, he continued his contact with students in various ways. Many remember him keeping the score books for boys and girls basketball games. In addition, he served on the Coulee City School Board, was a member of the Coulee City Council and Coulee City Rodeo Association. He was very active with local Boy Scout Troop 35 and helped with many Eagle Scouts. His diligence with the Boy Scouts at many levels earned him the Boy Scout Silver Beaver Award. In addition, he was a member of the Cannawai Grange, the Lincoln County Pomona Grange and parliamentarian at the State Grange. When he retired, he moved back to his farm in Marlin where he enjoyed his beloved Herefords, cats and dogs. Gordon had hired men to help with the cows, irrigation and hay. Throughout his life he was a devout Lutheran and member of the Salem Lutheran Church in Marlin. He leaves many past students, teachers, administrators, neighbors and friends. Donations can be made to Coulee City Scout Troop 35, Union Gospel Mission or the charity of one's choice. Scout donations can be sent to Shirley McLean, 9516 SR 17 N., Coulee City WA 99115. A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held Saturday, November 3, 2018 at 1 p.m. at the Coulee City Presbyterian Church, 214 N. 4th St., Coulee City WA. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at http://www.stratefuneralhome.com for the Peterson family. STRATE FUNERAL HOME in Davenport is caring for the family.