Wallace Peterson

WALLACE A. PETERSON 1912-2008 I owe my success in life to poverty, as it has been my greatest teacher. Now seeing that I know these things, why should I desire more than to perform the work to which I have been called? On March 27, 2008 the world lost an outstanding citizen. Wallace A. Peterson was born January 24, 1912 in Midvale, Utah to Charles and Emily Olson Peterson. He married Helen Riding in Reno, Nevada, later divorced. He married Rose V. Hindoian on March 13, 1971. Their marriage was later solemnized in the Salt Lake Temple. He was a loving and devoted father to eight children, and a hard-working man with strong values and a sincere concern for his fellow man. A pioneer in the transportation field, he owned and operated Wallys Motor Lines for 28 years, was co-owner of LA Express for 10, served as vice-president of Utah Freightway and Truckline, and served on the Governors Board for Transport Clearings. Upon selling his truck line he built and operated the El Rio Motor Lodge at the mouth of Zion National Park. After retiring he worked as the foreman for the maintenance crew at the Utah State Capitol for another 10 years. From 1956 to 1960 he served in the Utah State House of Representatives, and was accorded the rare honor of serving as Majority Whip during his second term. One of his proudest recollections was introducing John F. Kennedy to the House. Wallace was a veteran of WWII, a lifetime member of Disabled American Veterans and the Commanders Club. His name is inscribed on the Wall Of Honor at the Veterans Memorial Park and Cemetery at Camp Williams. A devoted member of the LDS Church, Wallace gladly fulfilled any calling requested, including Elders Quorum Counselor and Secretary, Young Mens MIA Counselor, the High Priesthood, and temple worker in both the Salt Lake and Jordan River temples. He is survived by his loving wife Rose, sons Don (Paula), Wally (Charlene), daughters Ann Fay (Don), Rosemary Tonnesen (Lane), and Kathy Brown (Michael), brother Edwin, 21 grandchildren, and many great and great-great grandchildren. Preceded in passing by his brother Andrew, sisters Lili Workman and Margaret Mascaro, son Scott, and daughters Georgia Hale and Julie Eckhardt. A viewing will be held Monday, March 31 from 6-8 PM at McDougal Funeral Home, 4330 S Redwood Rd. Funeral services will be Tuesday, April 1, 12 p.m. at the Taylorsville 28th Ward, 3495 W 4850 S, with viewing one hour prior. Interment will follow at the Salt Lake City cemetery. A truly kind and gentle soul, Wallace will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him as family or friend. Condolences may be sent by going to mcdougalfuneralhomes.com.