Terry Mae Peterson

Terry Mae Peterson, a beacon of love and selflessness, passed away on December 17, 2024, at the age of 66. Born on October 27, 1958, to Gordon and Dorothy (Smith) Eitland, Terry was a lifelong learner, having attended Madison East High School, furthering her studies at Wisconsin Technical College with an Accounting degree, and Viterbo College with an IT degree. She was a woman whose life was dedicated to others, being a founding member of the Westby First Responders which is now Westby EMS.

Terry's professional journey was a testament to her caring nature. She began her career as a volunteer at Madison General until she became a Nursing Assistant at Vernon Manor. Her passion of caring for others transitioned Terry to manage Coulee Cap Daycare, pouring her heart into the well-being and development of over 70 children which evolved to her opening a daycare out of her home. Later, she joined Hometown Office Supplies, which transitioned into Hometown Office Solutions. Terry's innate nurturing instincts led her to become a caregiver. Additionally, her passion for education continued as she often stepped into the role of substitute teacher, shaping countless lives with her wisdom and patience.

Beyond her professional engagements, Terry's interests painted a picture of a woman with a zest for life and love for the simple joys. An avid reader, she found solace within the pages of books, but also enjoyed a good movie, especially featuring Whoopi Goldberg. Her love for children was matched by her delight in collecting cherished items, reveling in the magic of Christmas, and the challenge of puzzles and games of cards with family. Terry's home was a hub of warmth, celebration, and country music, especially during the holidays, as she relished in cooking and hosting, creating unforgettable memories for her family. In her early years, she was always a busy body, looking forward to traveling and trips to the casino with her family.

Terry's life was one of unwavering faith, having a deep faith in her Lord. She was a selfless and loving spirit who was always making sure everyone else was taken care of before herself. Terry was a caregiver for her family all their lives and she will be missed dearly by all.

Terry is survived by her children: Beckie Henderson (Scott Wathen), Charlie (Stephanie) Lancaster, and Chris (Becca) Lancaster; grandchildren: Kaylee and Ronon Henderson, Libby Ann, Eva, and Nolan Lancaster, and Abalene, Austin, Genesis, Hazel, Ethan, and Sapphire Lancaster; her mom, Dorothy Eitland (Ron Ottosen); her siblings: Jannette Schafer, Rod (Andrea) Eitland, and Roxane Geier; and nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Dale; her dad, Gordon; sister, Noreen Eitland; brother-in-law, Tom Schafer; son-in-law, Ray Henderson; former husband and friend, Russell Lancaster; and her grandparents.

A Funeral Service will be held at 12:00 p.m. (noon) on Friday, December 27, 2024, at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in Westby. A visitation will be held from 10:30 a.m. until the time of service. Terry will be laid to rest at the Coon Prairie Cemetery next to Dale following the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be expressed to Westby EMS or Bethel Butikk in Terry's memory.

Vosseteig Funeral Home & Crematory in La Farge is serving Terry's family.

203 N. State Street

La Farge, WI 54639

(608) 625-4244