Keith Brian Peterson, age 75 of Reedsburg, passed away Thursday, March 31, 2022 at St. Mary's Hospital in Madison . Keith, son of Merlin and Carmen Peterson, was born June 28, 1946 in Black River Falls, WI. After many years together, Keith married his life partner, Jan Wirth on December 13, 2014 at Olbrich Gardens in Madison.
Keith graduated from High School in Black River Falls and college from University of Wisconsin Eau Claire with a Bachelor of Business Administration degree. Keith proudly served in the U.S. Army, joining the 82nd and 101st Airborne. He served in Viet Nam, earning 2 Purple Hearts and the Bronze Star. Keith worked in manufacturing until retiring from Humane Manufacturing in Baraboo as President and part owner. He and Jan shared a love of travel and had many adventures, both in the United States and internationally. Their home in Reedsburg of 25 years fulfilled their love of nature every day. Keith spent hours fishing, canoeing and watching wildlife pass through the yard and enjoyed sharing that joy with friends and family. Keith and Jan also shared their lives with many beloved dogs and cats.
Keith is survived by his loving wife Jan Wirth, brother Richard (Mary), children Renae Schmidt (Alan), Amy Peterson (Tim Anderson), grandchildren Jesse Peterson (Cassandra Horstmeier), Stephanie Schmidt, Jordon Peterson, Jennifer Schmidt (Zane Navratil), Jarrid Peterson (Hannah Mathison), Trinity Schmidt (Alec Baye) and many loved nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews and friends and relatives.
He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Robert (Sharon), Terry and sister-in-law Harriet, Ron and sister-in-law Rosie, and sister Karen (Bob).
A visitation and Celebration of Life will be Monday April 25, 2022 from 4 pm to 6 pm at Redlin-Ertz Funeral Home with Military Honors at 5:45. Celebrating Keith will continue at the Thurber-Greenwood VFW in Reedsburg following Celebration of Life.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Columbia County Humane Society and Ketchums Got Your Six, Inc.
Ivy & Russ Hoege April 12, 2022
Friend Reedsburg , Wisconsin
Sending you our sympathy! Hugs to you!
Ellen Holcomb April 12, 2022
Swim Reedsburg friend Reedsburg , Wisconsin
Jan, I am so sorry to hear this. My Condolences to you and your family. Ellen
Soto Family April 18, 2022
Niece and family Janesville , Wisconsin
Sending our sincere condolences and love during this difficult time. Love you all! 💜💜âï¸
Rachael McKenzie April 18, 2022
Friend Sun Prairie , Wisconsin
Renae and all, so sorry to hear if your Dad's passing.. lots of good memories from when we grew up. Thinking of you, losing a parent is never easy, sending well wishes and prayers to your family â¤ï¸ Steve & Rachael
Kelly Peterson April 19, 2022
Friend Mount Juliet
So very sorry to hear of Keith’s passing. I send warm thoughts and prayers to everyone. Terry and I had some great times with Keith and Jan!!
Sue Ellen Baye April 19, 2022
Friend Cedarburg
Our deepest condolences to you and your family!💕
Sue Driefke April 19, 2022
Friend Lavalle , Wisconsin
Jan, so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers for you and your family
The Kraus Family April 19, 2022
Niece Kiel , Wisconsin
We’re sending all of prayers and love!
Julie Scott April 21, 2022
Niece Eleva , Wisconsin
Dearest Jan, Renae, Amy & family Sending my deepest condolences on the loss of a great man, husband, father, grandfather, friend, uncle, brother and more. Praying that our Heavenly Father wraps His loving arms around all of you; showering His love and peace to all. Much love... Julie
Mark Styles and Liza Siy April 21, 2022
friends Mequon , Wisconsin
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Keith was a good man.
Sunday Muniz April 25, 2022
Friend Racine , Wisconsin
To Jan, Renae, Al, Trinity, Jennifer & Stephanie - Hoping you find peace in memories!!