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 and Lucy (Reddeman) Petersen. 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. Johns 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, Hudson Petersen.  In-laws: Darlene Trapp, Marvin (Pam) Mude and Patty Mude. 

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

Visitation will be on Sunday, August 23, 2026 from 1:00 – 2:00 p.m., with the funeral to follow at 2:00 p.m. at St. Johns Lutheran Church in Springfield and burial at Springfield City Cemetery, where military honors will be provided. 

Instead of flowers, Richard had requested donations be made to the Springfield Public Library, St. John’s Home or the Salvation Army.