Matthew Peterson

Matthew Arnold Peterson passed away on Tuesday, November 10, 2020 at the age of 56.  Matt was born on January 23, 1964 in Pontiac, Michigan. His childhood was spent in Grand ledge, Michigan before moving to Houghton lake, Michigan where he graduated high school and met the love of his life Mary Peterson.  In his younger days Matt started working for a company which took him all over the country before coming to Battle creek, Michigan in 1995. He then worked for Pitney Bowes until he had an opportunity to go into business for himself. He started Allstate insurance in downtown Battle creek in 2011, which he was able to pass down to his beloved, trusted, employee and son Tyler in 2018.  Matt had very deep ties to the Battle Creek community and will be missed by many, he was an assistant coach at Battle Creek Central from 1999-2011 were he was able to coach his three sons and meet some of the most influential people in his life. In 2015 Matt and his son Mitch decided to purchase a piece of property just outside of town “THE PETERSON PRESERVE”. Whether it was watching the grandchildren play, getting things ready for the next hunting season, or just going out to take a nap and enjoying the quiet solitude, this property brought many lasting memories of him for the family.Matt was one of the most incredible people to ever be around. He always found a way to touch your life and make you a better person with his abundant generosity and love. He was one of the most positive, and inspirational men to bless our lives –“ In the end, our lives will be judged not by our effort and things we began, but by the things that our effort and resolve brought to a successful conclusion”-Jim Rohn .He gave the absolute best hugs ever, we are all better people for being able to have had him in our lives.  Matt was preceded in death by his mother; H. Kathleen Giffen, father; Delbert J. Giffen, and brother Timothy Giffen. He is survived by his wife; Mary Peterson, sons; Mitch Peterson, Jordan Peterson, and Tyler Peterson; Grandchildren Brayden Peterson, Maverick Peterson, Leah Peterson, Jakobie Peterson, Cooper Peterson. He also leaves behind two daughter in law’s  Katie Peterson and Ashley Peterson. Being the youngest of 8 siblings he leaves behind 3 brothers Lynn Peterson, Ron Peterson, “Buck” Peterson; 3 sisters Rita Marshall, Carol Trammell, and Karen Putney.  Matt’s greatest accomplishment in life was that of “Dad”. He was a great dad and set a wonderful example for his three son’s to carry on. Mitchell, Jordan and Tyler were his best friends in life. There was nothing he would not do for them. His love of his boys was endless.

Matt will have a private service at Richard A. Henry Funeral Home & Cremation Services, followed by cremation.  His ashes will be spread around “THE PETERSON PRESERVE” at all of his favorite hunting spots, around the campsite where so many memorable days were had. So, his memory will always live on.  Memorial contributions may be made to the Al Leibert Scholarship Fund c/o Battle Creek Community Foundation.  Memories and condolences may left for the family ay www.henryfuneralhome.org