Obituary of Florence R. Peterson

Florence R. Peterson
(nee Neary)

Florence R. Peterson, age 80, passed away on Monday, August 13, 2018, at Rosewood Care Center, surrounded by her loving family.  She was born in Dublin, Ireland on January 22, 1938, to the union of Peter and Florie (nee Leonard) Neary.

Florence lived a very active life.  She moved to Chicago in 1963, and later attended Harry S. Truman College.  In addition to being the owner of Belmont Foods in the Avondale neighborhood of Chicago, she was a former member of the Women Elks Club, and was a role model and leader to numerous young girls throughout the years as a Girl Scout Troop Leader.  She was an avid gardener and took pride in the numerous awards that she received for the “Most Beautiful Garden” in the neighborhood.  Above all, she will always be remembered as a dedicated wife, mother and grandmother.

Florence is survived by her son, Brian Peterson; daughters, Yvonne Peterson and Dawn (Sean) Markley; granddaughter, Elizabeth Peterson, whom she raised as her own; siblings, Maeve (the late Desmond) McDonald and Gemma (Michael) Flahive; her grandchildren, Mickey Peterson, Connor, Logan, and Niamh Markley; as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins.

She is preceded in death by her loving husband of 50 years, Glen H. Peterson; her parents; brother, Peter (Irene) Neary; sister, Therese (Patrick McHugh) Hines-McHugh; brother-in-law, James Hines; and numerous cousins.

Funeral Services for Florence R. Peterson will be held privately by the family.  In lieu of flowers, memorials in her name to the Alzheimer’s Association would be appreciated.  Arrangements have been entrusted to Fred C. Dames Funeral Home.  For more information, please call 815-741-5500 or visit her Memorial Tribute page at www.fredcdames.com