Marilyn Peterson

Marilyn Peterson (née Karlsen) October 13, 1942 – February 6, 2026 Marilyn Peterson, 83, passed away peacefully on February 6, 2026. A lifelong resident of Racine, Wisconsin, she was born on October 13, 1942, and lived a life defined by her devotion to her family, her faith, and her community. Marilyn graduated from Park High School in 1961. She dedicated many years to a career as an ultrasound technician, serving the community at St. Mary’s Medical Center (now Ascension). Beyond her professional life, Marilyn was deeply involved in her heritage and faith. She was a longtime member of First Baptist Church and Bethania Lutheran Church, served on the Board of the Danish Home, and was a proud member of the Danish Sisterhood. On October 20, 1962, Marilyn was united in marriage to Norman L. Peterson at Bethania Lutheran Church. Together, they shared 45 wonderful years of marriage and a passion for travel before his passing in 2008. Marilyn was a woman of many talents who found joy in the quiet precision of cross-stitch, cooking, sewing, and crocheting. In later years, she also shared a close and special relationship with Peter Bennett and his daughters, Laurie (Tomasek) and Lisa (Caffery). Marilyn was preceded in death by her parents, Edith and Anton Karlsen; her beloved husband, Norman; and her brother, Theodore Karlsen. She is survived by her loving children, Linda J. Schweissinger (Darrel) and Steven J. Peterson (Mischelle); her cherished granddaughters, Taylor and Kylie; her dear sister, Kathleen (William) Wakefield; her brother, David (Kathy) Karlsen; and her sister-in-law, Mitzi (Theodore) Karlsen. She is further survived by many fond nieces, nephews, extended family, and lifelong friends. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her. A memorial service honoring Marilyn’s life will be held at Sturino Funeral Home, 3014 Northwestern Ave, at 11:30 a.m. on Friday, February 20, 2026, with Rev. Steve Wohlfeil officiating. A visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to the ALS Association-Wisconsin Chapter.

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Marilyn Peterson

October 13, 1942 - February 6, 2026