Herta Peterson

Herta Peterson, age 93 of Battle Creek, passed away February 21, 2012. She was born July 25, 1918 in Piesteritz, Germany, the only child of Rudolf and Margarete Goedel. She graduated in 1932 in Berlin and completed her apprenticeship in Lady Tailoring in 1935. Her talent and interest in dress making as a young girl developed into a career. She designed and created many outfits for her family and many a customer, and Jacobson’s enjoyed her expertise. She worked in the alteration department at Jacobson’s for 24 years, retiring in 1980. On September 7, 1945, she married Wolfgang Peterson in Berlin, Germany. Being a difficult time after the war, Wolfgang’s father helped make arrangements for the family to come to the U.S. She came to the United State with her husband and son in 1953, living in Tekonsha and Marshall before moving to Battle Creek in 1956. In 1959, Herta and her family became United States citizens. They enjoyed much traveling to Canada and the Northeast, saying it often reminded them of home, but nothing replaced the pleasure they got out of their return visits to Germany, sharing good food and good times with family and friends. Herta’s friends were an important part of her life. She would often talk about how kind and thoughtful they were whether it was picking her up for lunch and errands or an invitation to join them in their home. Herta and Wolfgang were members of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church and were active members in the German Club here in Battle Creek. Herta is survived by her son Fred and daughter-in-law Diana and great-grandson, Austin Collett all of Battle Creek. She was preceded in death by her husband, Wolfgang in 1996, and granddaughter, Coriena Collet in 2000. In accordance with Herta’s wishes, cremation has taken place and there will be a memorial service to honor her life on Tuesday, May 1, 2012 at 11:00 a.m. in the Chapel at Memorial Park Cemetery with Pastor Gary Siefert officiating. Those wishing to make memorial contribution may choose St. Paul’s Lutheran Church or a charity of one’s choice. The family wishes to thank everyone who has helped care for Mom over the years, at her home, the Heritage and Calhoun County Medical Care Facility. Your thoughtfulness and care brought comfort to her and her family.

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