Fred Peterson

Hymera, IN Frederick Ross Peterson 78, of Hymera, passed away in Terre Haute Regional Hospital at 12:11am on October 17, 2016. He was born April 11, 1938, in Terre Haute, to Ross and Helen Prose Peterson. Survivors include his wife Velma Lessmann Peterson, a son Mark Peterson (Jill), a sister Vicki Richards, sister-in-law Cora Lou McDonald, grandchildren Ashlan Peterson, Mitchell Peterson, step grandchildren Vince Myers, Ashton Hedrick and special grandchildren Payne Fortner and Skye Dillingham. Fred graduated from Hymera High School in 1956 and received his Bachelor of Music and Bachelor of Music Education degrees from Indiana University School of Music in 1961. He then taught music in Jefferson County Colorado Public Schools and was principal trumpet in the Englewood CO Symphony Orchestra, Boulder Symphony and Denver Symphony. After receiving his Master of Music from IU he became a professor of music at Eastern Kentucky teaching trumpet and brass. While in Kentucky he was principal Trumpet in the Lexington Philharmonic Orchestra. In 1978 Fred had completed all the course work for his Doctor of Music. Later that year upon the death of his father, he returned to the family farm in Sullivan County. There he spent many years enjoying the freedom of farming with his family. His favorite pastimes included attending his sons', granddaughter's and grandson's events. In addition he enjoyed raising Arabian horses and Boer Goats. His greatest love in life was being surrounded by family and close friends. Fred never knew a stranger and he will forever be remembered for his warm smile. Preceding Fred in death were his parents, and a son David Peterson (Vanesa Peterson Phillips who remains very close to the family). Fred taught music for several years, and was a member of The National Association for Music Education, before coming back home to take over the farm. He was, also, a member of the American Boer Goat Association. His visitation will be Friday, October 21, 2016, from 4:00 to 8:00pm in Holmes Memorial Chapel. Services will be Saturday, October 22, 2016 at 10:00am, at the funeral home, with the Rev. Jeff Blansett officiating. Interment will follow at Westlawn Cemetery in Farmersburg.