Irene Peterson, 86, of Seneca, KS, died ­­­­­­­­­­­­on Wednesday, September 15, 2021 at Crestview Nursing and Residential Living.

She was born on February 27, 1935 in Bardley, MO the daughter of Ray V. and Vergie Lewis Peterson.

Irene lived in a children’s home in St. Louis for some of her childhood, from there she moved to Mountain Grove, MO, and later Lamar MO.  In January of 1965, she moved from Lamar, MO to the Coal Creek Community south of Centralia, KS.   She stayed with Francis Becker and his wife, and worked with them on their farm.  Irene attended the Nemaha County Training Center.  In 1985, she moved to Seneca.  She enjoyed working in the NCTC laundry service and Sprout House greenhouse.   She was employed by The Huddle restaurant and Daylight Donuts.

Irene’s family was separated when she was only 8 years old due to unfortunate circumstances.  In July 1995, she was able to make a trip back to her home community in Missouri.  She visited the area where the family home place once stood, the cemetery where her family rests, visited her brother Doris, sisters Nora and Dorine and family friends, making memories she treasured.

Irene’s favorite activities were to get her exercise walking to collect aluminum cans and caring for her many houseplants and flowers.  In 2004, Irene moved to Crestview Residential Living, she enjoyed participating in many activities and the company of other residents and staff.

Irene is preceded in death by her parents, Ray and Vergie Lewis Peterson; her brothers, Murel Peterson and Doris Peterson; and her sisters, Nora and Dorine Peterson.

Irene will be in state on Monday morning, September 20, 2021 at Crestview Nursing and Residential Living and at the Lauer Funeral Home in the afternoon.

Burial will be in Pine Cemetery, Bardley, MO on Tuesday, September 21, 2021.

Memorial contributions may be given for Crestview’s Activity Fund.