Ted C. Peterson, age 65, of O'Fallon, born December 11, 1946 in Inglewood, Calif., passed away at home on Saturday, September 15, 2012.

Ted was a veteran of the US Air Force Special Forces. His distinguished military service included being an expert marksman on the AF Command Rifle Team and leading numerous covert operations in Libya and Vietnam. After his military service, Ted began his long and respected 33-year career as Division Sales Manager with RJ Reynolds. It was in this role that Ted mentored many young colleagues and was able to bring out the best in his employees. After his retirement in 2002, he was able to travel extensively with his dear wife, Sue, loving every place he ever visited. Ted was a gifted woodworker, using his master craftsman skills to enhance their home. He had a love and appreciation for history and geography, and most loved the high deserts of the western United States. Ted was loved and respected as a wonderful, caring, wise husband, father, and friend, and was quick to return that love to his family and to all creatures.

He was preceded in death by his parents Thyrill Austin and Ruth Frances, nee Richards, Peterson; and two brothers, Gary and Bruce Peterson.

Surviving are his beloved wife of 45 years, Sue Ann, nee Smith, Peterson, of O'Fallon; his sons, Ted (Anne) Peterson, Jr., of St. Louis, Mo., and Dennis Peterson, of Fort Mill, S.Car., his brother Don (Kathy) Peterson, and sister Kathy Gatrel; his sweet grandchildren, Julius, Quinn, Regan, Marin, and Hayden, and his brother-in-law Capt. John C. (Carol) Smith, USN (retired) of San Angelo, Tex., and sister-in-law, Mary Jo (Dr. Philip) Kahlert, of O'Fallon; and his much loved nieces and nephews.

Memorial donations are suggested to Hospice of S. Illinois or Spencer Pet Rescue.

A gathering to celebrate his life will be held on Sunday afternoon, November 4, 2012, from 1:00 - 5:00 pm, at his home in O'Fallon.