Robert O. Peterson

Robert Oliver Peterson passed away on March 5, 2022 in Hays, Kansas at the age of 82. He was born February 6, 1940 in Peterton, located in rural Osage County Kansas and grew up on the family farm there.

Bob attended country schools in Osage County and graduated from Osage City High School in 1958.

He joined the United States Army after graduation and served three tours of duty during the Vietnam War. Bob retired after 20 years of service and relocated back to his hometown of Osage City, Kansas where he worked another 20 years for the United States Postal Service.

Bob was united in marriage to LaRita Atchison on August 25, 1961. They had one daughter, Roxanne. Bob is survived by his wife Rita, daughter Roxanne and husband Mitch Bartels all of Phillipsburg, Kansas, granddaughter Regan and husband Zach May of Oberlin, Kansas and granddaughter Tatum Bartels of Hastings, Nebraska. Bob was preceded in death by his parents Roy and Alice Peterson, brother Roy Peterson, in-laws Joe and Ferne Atchison, and brother-in-law Larry Atchison. He is also survived by his sisters-in-law Marylln Peterson and Hazel Atchison, along with several nieces and nephews. Bob was very excited to learn he was going to be a great-grandpa this summer.

Bob was known for his patriotism and love of country. He was a lifetime member of the American Legion Post 198 in Osage City and was very active before moving to Hays, Kansas to be closer to family. Bob rarely missed a meeting, parade, Bingo nights, pancake feeds, and setting up flags. Bob spent many years serving on the Osage City School Board and was a member of the Masonic Lodge. He was also a lifetime member of the VFW. Bob loved the outdoors, particularly spending time fishing and hunting. Bob also had a soft spot for all the family dogs, particularly Annie. Bob was known for his love of ice cream and would never turn down a dish!

Celebration of Life Memorial Services will be held at 1:00 p.m., Saturday, March 12, 2022 at VanArsdale Funeral Chapel in Osage City with inurnment to follow at Arvonia Cemetery with full military honors. A luncheon will be held prior to the service at the American Legion Post 198 in Osage City. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to American Legion Post 198 sent in care of VanArsdale Funeral Chapel, 107 N. Sixth, Osage City, Kansas 66523. Condolences may be expressed at VanArsdalefs.com.