James Loren Peterson

November 16, 1946 - October 23, 2022
James Loren Peterson

James Loren Peterson passed away October 23rd.

Jim worked hard, but never forgot to stop and enjoy life.

Jim was born in Helper, UT November 16th 1946, however you would often hear him introduce himself as “Jimmy Peterson from R-r-r-r-r-royal Utah!”

Jim graduated from high school in 1965 & then served in the army from 1965-1967 receiving a purple heart for injuries sustained

during his service.
Moving on to college, Jim attended the University of Utah

where he earned a degree in pharmacy & a master’s in business administration.

In 1975 Jim met his wife, Paula. They spent their lives together in Cottonwood Heights, Utah.

Jim worked at then Mountain Fuel (now Dominion Energy) for some time before going in to working as a Lead Pharmacist for Smith’s Food & Drug at various locations until he retired.

He would often take his Honda Valkyrie out for rides and even long trips with his friends where he would tour the country and then return; weathered and glad to be home.

Another of his favorite activities was fishing / staying over on the family’s boat that was docked at Flaming Gorge Lake. Often taking the family up for the weekend, or sometimes even week- long stays.

He also loved golf. All day, every day; Golf.

We cannot recall a day that he wouldn’t be wearing any of his favorite golf shirts, and he had a few. Always ready for the next friendly game or tournament.

In his golden years, Jim would often be seen napping in his chair – a blanket completely covering him so as to make you question if he was really even there at all, or if it was just a pile of blankets with an old show-tune or football or golf game on to keep him company.

Something you may or may not know is that Jim loved to put together models. All sorts. Specializing in old warships and airplanes.

Jim was an amazing man, with a lot of charisma. He would never hesitate to make you laugh.

Jim is preceded in death by his Mother Carmela, Father Loren, brother Ben and his sister Gaylene.

He is survived by his wife Paula & daughter Michelle & son James & grandchildren Jordanne & Kylie.

Mass will be celebrated on Monday, October 31, 2022 at 12:00 pm at St. Thomas More Catholic Church, 3015 East Creek Road, Salt Lake City. Friends and family may visit at 11:30 am prior to Mass. 

In lieu of flowers donations may be gifted to the Carmel of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, 5714 Holladay Blvd, Salt Lake City.