DEFOREST – Charles D. Peterson, age 81, died on Saturday, May 30, 2026. Charles (Chuck) was born on December 1, 1944, in Pittsburg, PA, to Charles and Mary (Crawford) Peterson.

He received his undergraduate degree from Capital University in Columbus, Ohio and a Master of Divinity from Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Theological Seminary at Capital University in 1970.

Chuck was called to serve as Associate Pastor of Dr. Martin Luther Church in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin until 1974 when he was called as Senior Pastor of Christ Lutheran Church in DeForest, Wisconsin. Pastor Chuck was a devoted shepherd of that congregation and community for 35 years. During his time there, he mentored several members of his congregation as they pursued their own ministry. Chuck was instrumental in bringing together other DeForest area clergy to hold ecumenical worship services. Christ Lutheran Church was deeply shaped by Pastor Chuck’s ministry.

Chuck was a member of the American Legion Post 360 in Waunakee, WI, and served as Chaplain for the Army National Guard for over 16 years. He retired as an Army Captain. He also served as chaplain for the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, was actively involved with the Madison Area Lutheran Council and the Madison Area Jail Ministry. Pastor Chuck provided first responder services to our local DeForest Police Department for many years. Pastor Chuck, along with Pastor Jerry Olson of Christ Lutheran Church, founded the DeForest Elderly Housing complex on Southbound Avenue.

Chuck loved animals and had many cherished pets throughout his life, including a pair of donkeys that both he and Linda adored. He was a complex, intelligent, kind, and patriotic person who will be greatly missed.

Chuck is survived by his wife of 59 years, Linda.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00AM on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at Christ Lutheran Church, 220 S. Main Street, DeForest. A visitation will be held on Friday, June 5, 2026, at the church from 4:00PM until 6:00PM and again on Saturday from 10:00AM until time of service. Burial at Norway Grove Cemetery, DeForest.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Christ Lutheran Church in DeForest. To view his obituary and leave a memory, please visit: www.ryanfuneralservice.com

Ryan Funeral Home & Cremation Services
Windsor/DeForest Chapel
6924 Lake Road
608-846-4250

Charles Peterson

December 01, 1944 - May 30, 2026

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