Judy Peterson, 60, Ada, Minnesota, died Thursday, October 20, 2016, after a brief illness at her residence. She was born on February 19, 1956, to James and Faye (Lohmeier) Peterson at Ada, MN. Judy attended the Ada Public School, graduating in 1974. She continued her education at Moorhead State University, Moorhead, MN, as a student athlete playing volleyball, basketball and softball, graduating Cum Laude in 1978 with a BS degree in Education. Judy did her student teaching at Ada and was hired to teach Phy Ed. Over the years at Ada Public School, Judy taught Phy Ed, Special Education and Drivers Training. She served as coach for all female sports—volleyball, basketball, track and initiated the beginning of Ada Softball Team. Judy coached the volleyball teams to 2 Minnesota State Tournaments...finishing 6th in 1994 and 2nd in 1995.

Judy lived with her parents and, after her father died, cared for her mother until her passing. Having a quiet and thoughtful spirit, Judy nurtured many students, athletes, and family members to be all they could be. Her ability to encourage students to do what was right and best for their lives allowed many to succeed in college and excel throughout their lives. She had a unique sense of humor that brought a smile to many.

Judy's passion for sports began as youth. Family and friends remember playing basketball in the family's hay loft. Her competitive spirit and athletic abilities were tempered by her humble and grateful attitude. Being sensible and level headed attracted many to consult her for advice. She was loved by students, colleagues, friends and family, especially her niece and grand-nephews: Danielle, Brennan, Drew, and Ayden.

Judy is survived by her sister, Cindy Peterson of Ada and a brother, Daniel (Mary) Peterson, Perham, MN, 4 nephews and nieces: Jeremy (Chris) Peterson, Angel (Dave) Dockendorf, Jacob (Bethany) Peterson, and Danielle Peterson; 6 great-nephews and nieces, Brennan, Drew, and Ayden Peterson, Grace, Cooper, and Liam Dockendorf; aunts and uncles, cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents.


Funeral: 2:00PM Tuesday, October 25, 2016, at Grace Lutheran Church, Ada.

Visitation: 5:00PM to 7:00PM with a 6:30PM prayer service at Grace Lutheran Church, Ada, MN, on Monday, October 24, 2016.

Interment: Ada Municipal Cemetery, Ada, MN.