Donald Earl Peterson

Funeral Service: https://vimeo.com/event/4454958

Tribute Video: https://www.tributeslides.com/tributes/show/FL6X7M78645P6567

Donald Earl Peterson, 90, of Fargo, ND, passed away Wednesday, July 10, 2024 at home surrounded by his family.

Born August 11, 1933 in Siren, WI to Halvor and Emma Peterson, Donald was the youngest of six children.  He grew up in Minot, attending college at Minot State University before transferring to North Dakota State University to complete his master's in Electrical Engineering.  After Graduation, he continued at NDSU as a professor and administrator while serving with the Army Reserves for eight years. During this time, he met the love of his life, Phyllis Johnson, at First Lutheran Church. They were married September 17, 1960.

In August 1961,  Don established the Computer Center.  Under his direction, NDSU became the first institution in the state to install a direct connection to the internet enabling them to be designated as the Higher Education Computer Network for the state.  After 42 years of service, he retired to enjoy more time doing the other things he loved, but he never really left NDSU behind.  An Avid fan of the Basketball and Football teams, he was often seen in the stands, cheering them on.

With a smile on his face, he was always ready to volunteer.  Donald loved helping people.   He was active with Kiwanis, First Lutheran Church, American Red Cross, Emergency Food Pantry, the Great Plains Food Bank, and Bible Study Fellowship.  When not volunteering or spending time with his family, he enjoyed repurposing antiques. A true Boy Scout, he was a talented woodworker and outdoorsman – spending time fishing, camping, and igniting the same spark in others.

Don is survived by his wife of 63 years, Phyllis; his daughter, Janice (Steve) Harter of Fargo; his sons, Roger (Tracie) Peterson of Chaska, MN, and Steven Peterson of Fargo; and his five grandchildren, Jessica, Shawn, Hanna (Emma), Faith, and Hope.  He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Kenneth; his four sisters, Helen, Alice, Vivian, and Yvonne; and his brother, Harold.