Consummate Mother, Blessed and Loved by all~

With a heart full of grace, Elsie Peterson passed peacefully through the doorway to her next heavenly adventure on April 22, 2025, at the age of 92. She had bravely weathered complications after surgery, which took a toll on her fragile body. Now, she is reunited with her beloved husband, Arnold, and their sons Dennis and James, who went before her.

Elsie’s memory will live on in the hearts of her three sons, Terry, Steve, and Kevin, as well as her 13 grandchildren and 23 great-grandchildren, each of whom were blessed to know her love. She is also survived by her lifelong foster son, Alan Johnson, who was with her for 57 years. Elsie’s love was wide, encompassing family, friends, and all those whose lives she touched.

An open family and friend gathering will take place on May 17, 2025, at Sumner Voiles Funeral Home for a service of remembrance, followed by a graveside ceremony at Sumner Cemetery. The family welcomes those who wish to join in a celebration of life afterward at Kevin’s home at 12919 224th St E, Graham, WA.
Please RSVP for catering. (206-304-0054)

Born on September 26, 1932, in Leigh, North Dakota, Elsie was the last surviving sibling of the Peterson family, whose grandparents immigrated from Norway and settled in North Dakota. At the age of 7, Elsie’s family made a bold move to Federal Way, Washington.

Even as a young woman, Elsie’s independent spirit shone through. At just 18 years old, while working as a waitress at Mickey’s Chicken Dinner Inn in Edgewood, she saved up enough to buy her very own 1949 Chevy. It was a sign of her determination, and a glimpse into the strength that would define her life.

Elsie met and married Arnold on July 18, 1952, and she spent 74 years in the same Edgewood home overlooking the Puyallup Valley. Their love was steadfast and deep, especially during the two years she lovingly cared for Arnold through his battle with ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease, until his passing in 1990. Elsie was a selfless caretaker, always putting the needs of her family first.

She had a remarkable gift for nurturing others. Throughout her life, she opened her heart and home to everyone who needed it. Elsie cared for 216 foster children over the years, providing a loving and stable environment for those in need. Her own children were raised with the values of kindness, generosity, and hard work. She taught them the importance of giving, the value of money, and the power of community.

Elsie was a master at finding joy in life’s little moments. She was an avid bargain hunter, clipping coupons, shopping garage sales, and always finding the best deals. But her greatest joy was in giving. Whether it was clothes for someone in need or a surprise gift, she always found a way to share with others. Her kindness was as abundant as her sense of humor.

Family adventures were another key part of Elsie’s life. In 1967, she and Arnold purchased 40 acres in Humptulips, WA, where their family spent countless hours camping, digging clams at the ocean, chopping wood, and cooking marshmallows by the fire. These memories were the foundation of strong family bonds and will be cherished forever.

For her 75th birthday, her children took her on a cruise to Alaska—a trip she loved so much, she went again the following year with family. It was during these travels that Elsie had the chance to reconnect with her siblings, sharing stories and preserving the family history.

Even as she grew older, Elsie’s independent spirit never faded. She remained in her home until the age of 92, only temporarily leaving to recover from COVID-19 in 2021. Once she was strong again, she insisted on returning to the place that held so many memories.

Elsie’s life was one of quiet strength, deep love, and endless generosity. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, hard work, and a profound sense of family. Though we will miss her more than words can express, we take comfort knowing that she is now part of a new adventure, one filled with love and peace.

We look forward to hearing her whisper to us from the next phase of her journey in a place of endless love and stories waiting to be shared.