Vernon "Pete" Pedersen, 72, Luverne, died unexpectedly Saturday, Sept. 29, 2001, in his home.
A memorial service was Wednesday, Oct. 4, in Bethany Lutheran Church, Luverne. The Rev. Paul Fries officiated. Burial was in Maplewood Cemetery, Luverne.
"Pete" Pedersen was born to Lars and Mary Pedersen on April 25, 1929, in Estelline, S.D., where he was raised and attended school. Following his education he helped on the farm.
He married Marlene Newell on Sept. 19, 1954, in Olivet, S.D. Following their marriage they made their home in Yankton, S.D., before moving to Luverne in 1956. He began working at Mohr Signs in Luverne. He also worked at Luverne Fire Apparatus where he built fire trucks. Later, he worked for Sweetman Construction until his retirement in 1993. On Jan. 28, 1995, Mrs. Pedersen preceded him in death. He continued living in his home in Luverne.
Mr. Pedersen was a volunteer fireman for Luverne Fire Department for more than 20 years. He was also a member of the Eagles Club in Luverne. He enjoyed fishing, hunting and the outdoors.
Survivors include three children, Kathleen Pedersen, Sun Lake, Ariz., Karen (Bruce) Petersen, Brandon, S.D., and Scott Pedersen, Sioux Falls, S.D; four grandchildren, Erin Pedersen, Christopher Miller, Nicholas Petersen, Danielle Petersen; one brother, Donald Giles, Hamilton, Mont; and four sisters, Viola Knudtson, Canby, Bev Ross, Brookings S.D., Joyce Peters, Monument, Colo., and Hazel Bouren, Highmore, S.D.
Mr. Pedersen was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Marlene, and one sister, Leona Davis.
Engebretson Funeral Home, Luverne, was in charge of arrangements.