Donald Eugene Peterson

Donald Eugene Peterson, 74, of Nunnelly, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on January 3, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Don was born on October 29, 1951, in Van Wert, Ohio. He was preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Florence Peterson; his brother-in-law, Charlie Schrier; and his beloved Chihuahuas, Sir Buttons and Lady Bows.

He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Lynn Peterson, and their children: Richard (Tammy) of Maryville, Tennessee; Sherrie (Thomas) Logothetis of La Porte, Indiana; and Dawn (Michael) Newcom of Merrillville, Indiana. Don was a proud grandfather to Dakota, Tanner, Desiree, Billy, Danny, Lyeva, Kaylee, Cameron, Sam, Jimmy, Ashland, Joshua, Jared, Jonah, Sarah, and Eric, and a loving great-grandfather to Alex, Felix, Xena, Izabella, Violet, Kalel, Delilah, Hunter, Addi, Evan, Gabe, Lexi, Jocelyn, PJ, Hayden, Jamie, MiaBella, and Jemma. He is also survived by his siblings: Paul (Kathy) Peterson, Harold (Terry) Peterson, Roger (Wanda) Peterson, Barbara Schrier, Florence (Allie) Lane, and Susie (Matthew) Price.

On October 4, 1969, Don married the love of his life, Lynn Marie Battleday. Through this marriage, Don gained his cherished Battleday family, all of whom loved him deeply. Together, Don and Lynn built a beautiful and enduring family.

Don proudly served his country in the United States Army as a military policeman. Following his honorable service, he worked various fast-food jobs before spending many years as a faithful and dedicated employee of Sullair.

When he wasn’t working, Don could often be found on the ballfield coaching or umpiring baseball and softball. A devoted member of the Springfield Ball Club, he spent countless years teaching young athletes sportsmanship, hard work, and how to be better people. Through his time at the ball club, Don met the Henrich family—Jim, Karen, Jimmy, Julia, Jessica, and Joe—friends who became family.

Drumming was another of Don’s great passions. As a member of The Country Gamblers, he entertained audiences throughout Northwest Indiana.

In later years, Don enjoyed many summers camping and fishing outdoors, while colder winters were spent indoors painting and drawing gifts for others. Don and Lynn began camping with their family at Broken Arrow Campground in Winamac, Indiana, where they eventually established a permanent residence. There, Don found a strong sense of community and fellowship.

After retirement, life became beautifully simple in Nunnelly, Tennessee. Don was surrounded by many friends, but his best friend Larry held a special place in his heart. The two were inseparable.

Throughout his 74 years, Don taught others kindness, respect, and tough love. He will be fondly remembered for his sense of humor, generosity, and unwavering love and dedication to his family.

When Don became ill, he asked that a message be shared with everyone:

“Never quit. I didn’t—and neither should you.”

In accordance with Don’s wishes, a celebration of life will be held at a later date. The family has entrusted Geisen-Carlisle Funeral Home with Don’s cremation.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that those who knew Don paint a ceramic ornament, ceramic figure, or even a rock in his memory. Please send photos of your creations to lyevahenrich@gmail.com

 or sherrie_lykins@yahoo.com so they may be shared with Lynn.

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