Oct. 24, 1924 – Jan. 28, 2010

James F. Jim Peterson, a longtime resident of Sunriver and Bend, passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, January 28.

The cause of death was due to complica-

tions from emphysema.

Born to Jack Peterson and Ruth Schreiber Peterson in Payette, Idaho on October 24, 1924, Mr. Peterson graduated high school in 1942 in Gooding, Idaho. With all 13 members of his graduating class, he enlisted in WWII and served in the Navy until the wars end. Only six members of this class returned from the war and they remained life-long friends. Jim attended his 65th high school reunion just a few years ago.

In 1948, Jim married the love of his life, Joan Medford. They moved from Idaho to Salem, Oregon where Jim attended Willamette University.

Joan and Jim shared 61 years of marriage and were business partners in the grocery industry. They began their career in the Eugene area where they lived from 1951 until they moved to Bend in 1970, and established Consumers, an innovative discount grocery store they operated until 1976. Subsequently, the Petersons owned and operated Grocery Outlet Stores in Medford, Oregon and Fresno, California.

Work was always balanced with play, but after the Petersons retired in 1986, Jim embraced 23 years of adventure-filled retirement with his wife, family and countless friends. They traveled extensively in pursuit of the best golf and fishing the world could offer, though Jim always referred to his wife as ”the best catch of his life”. He was an active member of the Sunriver Anglers Club, a life-long enthusiast for environmental conservation, and a consummate bridge and poker player. Jim had an active intellect and, with his wry smile and piercing blue eyes, freely shared his wisdom and humor with all.

Jim Peterson is survived by his devoted and adored wife, Joan, of Bend; two loving daughters, Connie Peterson of Clovis, California and Diane Max of New York City, and her husband, Adam Max. A third daughter, Pamela Peterson died in 2005. He is also survived by six grandchildren: Alythea Davidson and Garrett Weygandt of Fresno, Mackenzie Weygandt, Hannah, Jonah and Ezra Max of New York City, plus two great grandsons, Kyle and Ryan Davidson of Fresno.

A celebration of his life, will be held at a later date to be announced. In lieu of flowers, Mr. Peterson requested that donations be made in honor of Dr. Robert Pinnick, to the Summer Stiers Fund. Donations can be made at any U.S. branch of the Chase Bank, to account number 823158399.

James F. Jim Peterson