Richard Petersen

Richard Allen Petersen, the son of Jerry Dale and Ardella Bernice (Lehwald) Petersen was born on October 24, 1962, in Carroll, Iowa. He passed away Tuesday, May 26, 2026, at his home in Exira, Iowa.

He attended school in Exira and graduated from Exira High School with the Class of 1982. He later attended Des Moines Area Community College.

Richard worked in food service up until diabetes, a disease that he was diagnosed with at age two, forced him to retire.

He enjoyed Nebraska Cornhusker Football, listening to the Beatles, attending the Iowa State Fair and drinking Diet Coke and Mountain Dew.

Richard was preceded in death by his Parents.

Richard is survived by his beloved dog, Shorty; brothers, Randell Petersen and Jay Petersen of Exira, Iowa; niece, Oliva Petersen of Omaha, Nebraska; great niece, Willow Petersen of Omaha, Nebraska; One aunt and many cousins.

Per Richard’s wishes, no services will be held.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the American Diabetes Association in Richard’s name and can be sent in care of Schmidt Family Funeral Home to P.O. Box 523, Atlantic, Iowa 50022.

The Schmidt Family Funeral Home of Exira is caring for the Petersen Family at this time.