Lynda Peterson

September 5, 1946 – April 27, 2025

Lynda Peterson, beloved mother, grandmother, and educator, passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 27, at Trinity Regional Hospital in Fort Dodge after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. She was surrounded by her devoted sons, Tim and Jeff Peterson, in her final moments.

Born in Hampton, Iowa, to Bruce and Lucile Kelsey, Lynda was raised on a farm where she developed her strong work ethic and lifelong dedication to family. She attended Iowa Falls schools and went on to earn her bachelor’s and later master’s degree in education from Iowa State University.

Lynda raised her sons, Tim and Jeff, instilling in them the same values of love, service, and perseverance that guided her life. Lynda built a remarkable teaching career in Fort Dodge, where she taught elementary and middle school for over 40 years, and after retiring community college students. She had a gift for connecting with each child she taught and took immense pride in remembering her students long after they left her classroom.

Lynda was a passionate bridge player and a Gold Life Master who not only played competitively but also helped lead the local bridge club. Later in life, she discovered a love for quilting, delighting in creating beautiful handmade pieces for her loved ones.

She was known for her incredible storytelling, her caring and welcoming spirit, and her famous chocolate chip cookies and cupcakes that brought comfort and joy to family and friends alike. Lynda was the heart of her family–always present, always supportive, and always ready to lend a hand or a listening ear.

Lynda is survived by her sons, Tim Peterson (Melissa), Jeff Peterson and her cherished grandchildren, Emma, Jack, Brooke, and Maddie. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her, but her legacy of kindness, dedication, and love will continue to live on in the lives she touched.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Bruce and Lucile Kelsey, her brother Kurt and his wife Arliss Kelsey.

A celebration of Lynda’s life will be held at Citizens Central Community Center in Fort Dodge, IA on Saturday, June 21st from 11AM – 2PM.