Rosemary Jeanne Peterson

Rosemary Jeanne Peterson, aged 94, passed away peacefully in her sleep on January 7, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love and cherished memories that will be forever treasured. Born on February 16, 1931, to Beatrice and Norman Brokaw in Toledo, Ohio, Rosemary embraced life with warmth and kindness from a young age.

Growing up on the east side of Toledo, she had a joyful childhood spent at her parents' cottage at Devils Lake in Michigan, alongside her sister, Meri. These early experiences shaped her nurturing spirit and a lifelong appreciation for nature and family gatherings. Rosemary graduated from Waite High School, displaying her determination and desire to embrace every opportunity ahead of her.

Rosemary’s heart found its match when she met Arthur Peterson. Their love blossomed, and together they built a vibrant family, welcoming four wonderful children into their lives. The family's home was filled with laughter, love, and an abundance of beautiful memories, particularly with their close-knit circle of friends known as "The Group." Rosemary would later reflect on this time with fondness, as she remained the last of The Group, treasuring every moment spent together.

An entrepreneur at heart, Rosemary also thrived as an Avon Lady, contributing her spirit and charm as one of the founders of the Glass City Avon Club. In addition, she was a long time member of the Toledo Mothers of Twins Club. Her dedication and passion for her interests led to lasting friendships, especially with her beloved "forever friends", Phyllis Lehner and Geri Kucharski. The memories created during their conventions will forever remain a highlight of Rosemary's life.

Her role as a mother shone brightly throughout her years. Rosemary adored her family immensely, and after Arthur's passing in 2011, she relocated to Alexis Gardens, where she continued to find joy in her surroundings. For the next nine years, she engaged with her community and delighted in activities such as playing poker three times a week with Tom and the cherished poker gang, as well as Friday night games of 31 with friends.

Rosemary’s final Christmas Day was spent blissfully at the casino, a place she loved, surrounded by some of her family and friends. It exemplified her zest for life, her unyielding spirit, and her commitment to remaining connected to those she held dear.

Rosemary is survived by her loving daughter, Sandy Beavers, and her devoted sons, Kevin and Ken (Debbie) Peterson. Her legacy continues through her grandchildren, including Jenny (Dan) Beadle, Angie (Jeremy) Birmingham, Crystal (Duncan) Kline, Jamie (Aaron) Klein, Stephanie (Pete Herrick), Derrick (Trista), Broc (Brandi), and Zane Peterson. Additionally, she is the proud great-grandmother of Taylor and Nick Freeman, Savannah and Kaeleigh Briem, Tanner, Tenley, and Trey Kline, Foster, Lola, and Asher Klein, Maddie, Ava, Molli, and Aliza Peterson.

She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, husband Arthur, sister Meri, and son Randall. The tenderness of her spirit and her unwavering love for her family will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

A heartfelt thank you is extended to the staff and care teams at Alexis Gardens, along with Hospice of Northwest Ohio at their Toledo location, for the loving care they provided Rosemary in her later years.

Services honoring Rosemary will be held at Newcomer Funeral Home, Northwest Toledo, on Monday, January 19th, 2026, with visitation starting at 11:00 AM and the funeral service at 1:00 PM, concluding at 2:00 PM. It will be a time for family and friends to come together to celebrate the remarkable life of a woman who embodied love, strength, and joyous living.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making donations to Hospice of Northwest Ohio in honor of Rosemary's life.