Roger Lyman Peterson, 86, passed away Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2025, at Amber Glen in Urbana.
Roger was born April 14, 1938, in Cumberland, Wis. He pursued higher education at the Illinois Institute of Technology, where he earned a bachelor of science degree in 1956. His professional career was dedicated to the field of property and casualty insurance. Over the years, he became a respected insurance agent and achieved several prestigious designations, including CPCU (Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter), CIC (Certified Insurance Counselor) and CLU (Chartered Life Underwriter).
Roger was an owner in Tyler Fletcher Fink Peterson and Insurance Risk Managers Insurance Agencies until his retirement in 2001.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Roger served in the U.S. Coast Guard Reserve. His dedication to service extended into his community involvement as well. He was an active member of Grace Lutheran Church in Champaign where he found fellowship and faith. Additionally, he contributed significantly to the YMCA and played a role in the Chicago District Golf Association, representing Lincolnshire Fields Country Club-a club where he was a charter member and past president. Roger had a deep passion for golf and was an avid fan of both the Green Bay Packers and Illini sports. His enthusiasm for athletics brought him joy throughout his life.
He is survived by his wife, Sue Vance Peterson; sons, Jeff Peterson and Bob Peterson; daughter-in-law, Vicky Peterson; daughters, Katy Grady and Emily Grady; brother, Kenneth Peterson; sister, Ruth Ann Thiel; and four grandchildren, Reichel, Vallen, Vance and Chase.
A private family memorial service will be held on March 14, at Grace Lutheran Church in Champaign. A celebration of life ceremony will follow later in spring at LFCC. As per Rogers wishes, cremation will take place. Arrangements have been made at Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center’s Champaign Chapel, 710 N. Neil St., Champaign.
Please join Rogers family in sharing memories, photos and videos on his tribute wall at sunsetfuneralhome.com.
