Richard Eddie Petersen

Richard Eddie Petersen, 90, of Springfield, passed away peacefully in his home on August 16, 2026. Richard was born on May 19,1936 to Louis & Lucy (Reddeman). He was baptized on June 12, 1936, and confirmed on April 12, 1950. He married Arliss Mude on June 17, 1960, after sweeping her off her feet with his dashing good looks (that he passed on to his sons) and Fred Astair like dance moves.

Richard was a lifelong farmer. He took no greater pride than working hard and taking care of the land. Most mornings he could be found with fellow farmers at Fritz’s with a cup of coffee and playing pinochle. He served in the United States Navy, was a member of the American Legion where he served as commander, he served on the Stark Farmers Insurance board, he was a dedicated member of St. John's Church and served on the St. John Lutheran Nursing Home Board.

He is survived by his wife Arliss (Mude) Petersen, their children Tammy (Kevin) Hacker, Louis (Susan) Petersen, Chris (Amanda) Petersen; grandchildren: Jon (Charlie) Hacker, Katie (Justin) Hacker, Tony (Yael) Hacker, Jarrett (Hope) Petersen, Jake (Brittany) Petersen, Amarah Petersen; Brooklyn Petersen, Tyler Petersen and Tanner Petersen; great grandchildren: Kalista Hacker, Baily Hacker, Oliver Wertman, Warren Petersen, Owen Petersen, Everett Petersen and Hudson Petersen, In-laws: Darlene Trapp, Marvin (Pam) Mude and Patty Mude.

Richard was preceded in death by parents Louis and Lucy Petersen; parents-in-law Elvin and Verna Mude; siblings and in-laws: Margie (Arnold/Hank) Eickelberg, Ottie (Roland) Prechel, Tom Trapp and Gary Mude.

Visitation will be on Sunday, August 23, 2026, from 1:00 – 2:00 PM, with the funeral to follow at 2:00 PM at St. John Lutheran Church in Springfield. Burial will take place at Springfield City Cemetery where military honors will be provided by the John Watson American Legion Post #257. Refreshments will be served immediately following the burial back at the church. 

In lieu of flowers, Richard's family requests donations be made to the Springfield Public Library, St. John Lutheran Home or the Salvation Army.

The family would like to extend their appreciation for the outpouring of kindness and love shone to them after Richard’s passing.