Brian Richard Peterson

life story

Gone Too Soon

Brian Richard Peterson. Age 29. Currently of Fairmont, formerly of Osseo/Maple Grove. Brian passed away unexpectedly, from an undiagnosed medical condition, on December 20, 2022. He was a gentle guy who loved books, his dogs, and his family. He was a voracious reader who could recall details from books read decades ago and supported his thoughts and arguments with recalled facts. As an Eagle Scout of Troop 84 in Maple Grove, Brian took the “do a good turn daily” to heart and was more than willing to help family and friends in time of need. It was not uncommon for Brian to ask, “Do you need me to do something?” or “Can I help you?”

About Brian

Brian was always playful and fun with his younger cousins and enjoyed spending time with the cousins his age. Family last saw Brian at Thanksgiving where he smiled and hugged those he loved. He loved being outdoors and spent much of his Thanksgiving weekend hiking the woods at his parents’ home, splitting and stacking wood with his dad, and taking his beloved dogs on walks. Brian’s heart was big and sensitive to others, and he struggled to make sense of the cold, hard world, often questioning people’s ethics and the resulting consequences.

Brian and his dad spoke on the evening before his untimely death. Brian was looking forward to coming home for Christmas, had gifts ready, and was eager to see family. An extra day off was going to provide him the opportunity to spend time in the woods and help his dad. The time in the outdoors, in the trees and by water, was always a positive space for him. He passed the next day and his family envisions him walking through trees, enjoying a lake view, and waiting for his dogs to join him.

He was preceded in death by Grandpa Richard Peterson. Brian is survived by many heartbroken family members. His loving parents, Don and Leanne (Blanchard) Peterson; his forever friend and sister Ali (Mayer) and his much loved brother-in-law Chris; grandparents: Benitia Peterson, Brian and Marilyn Blanchard, and many aunts, uncles, and cousins. All are left with a hole in their hearts that will never be filled. Brian left behind his two dogs: Gem, his faithful black lab of almost 13 years who was with him through the ups and down, and Talos, his adopted mutt of 5 years who adored Brian. We know his dogs were by his side as Brian left his earthly home.

Brian will be greeted by his Grandpa Peterson, his Great Aunt Carol, and his beloved dog Apollo.

The picture in the heading is truly the last picture of Brian. It was caught by our trail camera as he romped through the woods with his dogs on Thanksgiving weekend. This is how we picture Brian in heaven - free of pain and enjoying time outside.

All phone conversations always ended with exchanges of “I love you” and for that, family is grateful. The world lost a young man with great potential. Be kind to others, love the moments you have, and hug those you love.

memorial service

Celebration of Life Service

January 13, 2023

Immanuel United Methodist Church 10025 Brockton Ln N, Corcoran, MN 55340, USA

Service is scheduled for 3:00 p.m. on January 13, 2023, at Immanuel United Methodist Church in Corcoran, MN. Visitation is 2 hours prior to service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred. The family is working to set up scholarships for Gray Wolf Leadership Training through his former Scout Troop. Brian participated in this training and went on to be the Senior Patrol Leader (SPL) in his Scout Troop and on staff at Gray Wolf the subsequent year.

Due to Brian's love of dogs and his soft heart for rescues, a donation will also be made in his memory to Martin County Humane Society on behalf of his family. His beloved dog, Apollo, came into his life through this organization.

We will also use a portion of memorial money to help his sister and first (and best) friend, Ali, set up a library for children and youth who participate in programming under her direction at the East End Rec Center in Winona. Brian loved to read so it is right that his love of reading and books is shared with others.