Bernhard E. "Bernie" Petersen

Bernhard Emmett “Bernie” Petersen was born on June 17, 1940, in Denison, Iowa, to Bernhard G. and Emma C. (Hollander) Petersen. He was baptized on March 27, 1955, and confirmed on April 3, 1955, at Zion Lutheran Church in Denison. Bernie attended East Boyer Township Country School until 1951 before continuing his education at Denison Community School, where he graduated with the Class of 1958.

In February 1961, Bernie joined the Iowa National Guard, serving as a sergeant first class until February 1969. During his service, he worked as a chief cook—peeling thousands of potatoes along the way.

On October 21, 1962, Bernie married Marilyn M. Adams at Zion Lutheran Church in Denison. They built a life together filled with love, family, and hard work. Bernie began working in construction in 1964, and in 1969, he founded Bernie Petersen Construction. Over his career, he constructed more than 250 homes, leaving a lasting mark in his community and surrounding areas. He retired in 2006.

A devoted member of Immanuel Lutheran Church, Bernie was deeply involved in his faith community. He held various leadership roles, including president, trustee, elder, and a member of the Voters assembly. In his free time, Bernie enjoyed collecting old wood levels, playing cards—especially Solitaire—and spending time with friends and family.

Bernie passed away on Friday March 14, 2025, at Gracewell in Denison having attained the age of 84 years, eight months, and 27 days. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Marilyn Petersen; sons-in-law, Dan Gotto and Dan Miller; sisters, Lucile (Shorty) Foster, Marie (Lawrence) Wordekemper, and Ruth (Merlin) Maack.

He is survived by his children: Elaine Gotto of Denison, Colleen (Dave) Miller of Everly, Iowa, Cheryl Miller of Bennington, Nebraska, Roger (Shannon) Petersen of Urbandale, Iowa, grandchildren: Justin (Megan) Gotto, Jason (Abbey) Gotto, Josh Gotto, Melayna Miller, Damon Miller, Taylor Petersen, and Dustin Miller; great-grandchildren: Madison, Cora and Croix, Maisy and Milo; great great-grandson, Colter; nieces and nephews, other relatives and friends.

Visitation with Family Greeting Friends will be from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday March 18, 2025 at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Schleswig. Funeral Services will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, March 19, 2025 also at church. Burial will be in the Morgan Cemetery in Schleswig. Memorials may be directed to Immanuel Lutheran Church or to the family.