Service Details
A memorial service celebrating Mike’s life will be held at Prairie Ridge Church in Ankeny, Iowa, on Saturday, November 8, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., with lunch to follow at the church.
Interment with military honors will take place at Mount Vernon Cemetery in Swaledale, Iowa, at a later date.
Memorial Suggestions
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to Prairie Ridge Church in Ankeny, Iowa. https://ridgelife.org/give
Michael J. Peterson, 78, of Ankeny, Iowa, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, on October 5, 2025, in Mount Pleasant, Wisconsin.
Mike was born on March 14, 1947, to Carl and Shirley (Skipton) Peterson in Mason City, Iowa. His childhood years were spent on the family farm, where he developed a strong work ethic that guided him throughout his life. He graduated from Clear Lake High School in 1965 and went on to earn a degree in Chemistry from Central College in Pella, where he met the love of his life, Phyllis. They were married on June 21, 1969, and raised four boys together in Des Moines and later in Carlisle. Mike and Phyllis shared 50 wonderful years of marriage until her passing in February 2020.
Mike served his country honorably in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. He was stationed with the 18th Military Police Brigade, 8th MP Group, at Long Binh Post. Following his service, he dedicated 38 years to the State of Iowa in the Division of Criminal Investigation Criminalistics Laboratory, retiring as Criminalistics Supervisor, where he oversaw the DNA unit.
Mike’s faith in Jesus Christ was the foundation of his life. He served for many years as both elder and deacon at Calvary Reformed Church in Des Moines, later Crossroads Church in Norwalk. After moving to Ankeny, he joined Prairie Ridge Church, where he enjoyed serving on the building maintenance team. He found great joy in mission trips, often putting his skills as a builder to use in service to others.
Mike was passionate about woodworking and craftsmanship and was known for his ability to repair and create with his hands. He also enjoyed fishing, music, and spending time outdoors.
Mike will be remembered for his faith, his servant’s heart, and his love for family. His legacy will live on in the countless things he built—both with his hands and with his heart.
Left to cherish his memory are his sons, Rob (Shawna), Eric, and Andy (Heather); his grandchildren, Shianne, Nicole, Nathan, Jonah, Claire, Lillian, Scarlett, Daniel, and Anna; his siblings, Karen (Bill), Tom (Pam), and Jim (Oksana); his nieces and nephews; and many extended family members and friends. He was preceded in death by his wife, Phyllis; his son, Mark; and his parents.
A memorial service celebrating Mike’s life will be held at Prairie Ridge Church in Ankeny, IA on Saturday, November 8, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., with lunch to follow at the church. Interment with military honors will take place at Mount Vernon Cemetery in Swaledale, Iowa, at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to Prairie Ridge Church. https://ridgelife.org/give
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