Martin Petersen

In Loving Memory of Martin E. Petersen                                                                                                                                                                     

April 10, 1933 – March 23rd , 2025

Martin E. Petersen, a devoted family man, respected civil servant, and beloved community member, passed away peacefully at the age of 91 in Chandler, Arizona. Born on April 10, 1933, in Cheyenne, Wyoming, to Pete and Opal (Kinnison) Petersen, Martin lived a life full of love, service, and adventure.

A 1951 graduate of Cheyenne High School, Martin pursued his education at the University of Wyoming, where he not only studied but also discovered his soulmate, Carolyn Patrick, while playing in the university band. Their love story began in 1954 when they married, embarking on a journey filled with shared dreams and cherished memories.

Martin proudly served his country in the United States Air Force, a career that took him and his young family across the globe. From Austin, Texas—where their first daughter, Deborah, was born—to Guam and back stateside to Oshkosh, Nebraska where their son Patrick was born, Martin’s dedication to his service and his family was unwavering.

Martin returned to the University of Wyoming to complete his Civil Engineering degree and then embarked on a long and distinguished career in civil service. His work brought him and his family to Blytheville, Arkansas, where daughters Cindy and Rene were born, and to various locations across the United States and overseas. His career culminated in retirement in 1988 in Omaha, Nebraska, leaving a legacy of hard work and commitment.

In retirement, Martin and Carolyn embraced life to the fullest. They divided their time between Ogallala, Nebraska, near Carolyn’s parents, and Cheyenne, Wyoming, near Martin’s mother, while enjoying snowbird seasons in Cottonwood Arizona. They eventually moved to Cottonwood full time. In 2022, they made their final move to Clarendale in Chandler, Arizona, where they found comfort and companionship in their later years.

Martin’s life was a testament to love, perseverance, and devotion. He will be remembered as a loving husband, father, and grandfather, as well as a man who valued family above all else. His kindness, wisdom, and sense of humor left an indelible mark on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

Martin is survived by his beloved wife, Carolyn, his children Deborah, Patrick, Cindy, and Rene, 4 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren. He is reunited in peace with those who preceded him.

A celebration of Martin’s life will be held on a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.

Cards may be sent to:

Petersen Family Apt # 355                                                                                                                                                                                           5900 S Gilbert Rd                                                                                                                                                                                                       Chandler, AZ 85249

May his memory be a blessing to all who knew and loved him.