James Michael “Pete” Peterson, age 69, of Pulaski, Iowa, passed away on Saturday, August 8, 2026, at his home.
Pete was born on December 1, 1956, in Peoria, IL, to Dale Edwin and Mildred Louise (Rhea) Peterson. He grew up attending school and graduated from high school in Washington, IL. On August 25, 1983, he was united in marriage to Janet Marie Crisp in Peoria, IL, and to this union, 4 children were born: Brian, Jesse, Jacob, and Jenna. Pete and Janet shared nearly 43 years of marriage prior to his passing.
Pete was a hardworking man who spent his working career in tire sales and service and auto repair. He had a true passion for motorcycles and was a proud 19-year member of the Christian Motorcyclists Association (CMA) and an 18-year member of A.B.A.T.E. District 14. He loved riding with his CMA family, as well as giving his grandchildren rides.
Pete was a man of strong and unwavering faith. He attended the Bridge Church in Ottumwa. He enjoyed passing out pennies with a cross cut of them whenever he was out and about in order to help share the word of God with others and remind them of God’s presence and love. Above all else, Pete loved his family dearly and cherished the time spent with them, especially his wife, children, and grandchildren.
Pete is survived by his wife, Janet; 4 children, Brian (Amanda) Peterson, Jesse (Debbie) Peterson, Jacob (Rachel) Peterson, Jenna (Quentin) Mancilla 8 grandchildren, Dean, Jax, Sophia, Delilah, Charlize, Ethan, Noah, and Autumn; and a sister, Barbara Martin. Pete is also survived by many nephews and one niece.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Dale and Mildred Peterson.
Per Pete’s wishes, his body has been cremated and Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
An open memorial has been established to the family.
