Rexford (Rex) James Petersen

REXFORD (REX) JAMES PETERSEN + Today, Wednesday, 21 May 2014, our husband and father, Rex Petersen of Ogdensburg, Wisconsin passed away surrounded by his family at Saint Joseph Hospital, Marshfield after a lengthy but valiant challenge with Primary Amyloidosis. Since his diagnosis with this rare condition, Rex maintained his many hobbies and lifestyle until just days before his passing~ against all medical odds~ that can be attributed to the Lord's gift to him, an indomitable spirit for which he will always be remembered. Rex was born in Waupaca, Wisconsin on Friday, 10 June 1938 the second of three children to Arthur and Lillian Cornell Petersen. Rex was christened and confirmed at First Lutheran Church, Ogdensburg and was a 1956 graduate of Little Wolf High School in Manawa. Shortly after graduation, Rex served our nation for two years with the U.S. Army. Following his military service, Rex returned to the Waupaca area and began his forty-plus years of long haul semi-driving with Harold F. Dushek Company of Waupaca. On Saturday, 4 June 1966, Rex was united in holy wedlock to Shirley Ann Archer of Oak Creek. Together, they made their home "above the burg" and became parents to five children: Rex (Amy) of Neenah; Cherrie (James) of Menasha, Jacqueline of Ogdensburg, Julianna of Waupaca and Marie of Menasha. Rex held a fervent love for his family, farming, the great outdoors and the many activities surrounding those interests. From a young age yet on the farm, Rex's immense energy was visible in his love for farm work and its machinery, swimming, skiing down "the slopes" of the homestead while cultivating a love for all animals. Especially domestic cats, and particularly "Phil" who lived eighteen years and a life similar to his master…a seemingly odd interest for a rugged fellow like Rex! Hunting and fishing were the cusp of Rex's interests that took him, his son, and others on annual excursions in pursuit of fish and the "big game" with extended travels to both Colorado and Wyoming. Those interests grew into off-season trap-shooting, camping and campers, boating~ both fishing and recreational~ and snowmobiling with his family, while being keeper of a gun and rod/reel collection second-to-none, all thanks be to a graciously supportive wife! Rex, a true-blue Ford truck man, also kept company with Harley-Davidson 'ala his "Harley Hog," and was eager to engage others on a joy ride through the "sticks" and around the lakes of beautiful Waupaca County. Most recently, Rex's interests returned to his love for the family farm and at the time of his passing, he was in the throes of restoring two antique tractors, crossing the line of his father's passion for John Deere, and taking ownership of Farmall Internationals. A man of quick wit and strong opinions that often came with little finesse, Rex was a "solid citizen" who enjoyed the company of others best said in the loving words of his daughter, Cherrie: "If you're going to have an opinion, it better be the same as his!" His many decades of lengthy cross-country truck driving~employment few could endure~is testimony to a die-hard work ethic. Rex kept his Danish heritage, his faith in God, farm life and being a Republican close to his heart. Rex is further survived by his ten grandchildren: Ryan, Rylee, Sara, John, Anthony, Melissa, Alicia, Maddison, Jameson and Aschlie as well as one nephew, Randy Marsh (Cynthia) of New London; one niece, Candice Marsh Luebke of Oshkosh, numerous great and grand nieces and nephews and in-laws Jeannine and Lee Jacobs. He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister Gloria and her husband Richard of Oshkosh; a toddler sister, Victoria and special lifelong friends, Ken Christensen and John Timm. A Memorial Visitation for Rex was held on Saturday, 24 May 2014 at 11 o'clock in the morning, with its Service lead by Allen Stumke beginning at 12:30 at Voie Funeral Home, Iola. Rex's mortal remains will be returned to the earth in a private service at the family resting place in Ogdensburg. Dad~ You are by far the strongest man I have ever known, incredible strength always having another set of gears to go by. Although you thought you had missed out on much of our growing up because of your job, I tried to assure you that your time with us was quality, not quantity. There was never any gray area for you, and your values were always known: A commitment is a commitment, respect something that had to be earned, stand up and lead, but know when to follow, be honest, share what you have and always pay it forward. You shaped the person I am today, and even though you have left, you will never be forgotten! Love, Cherrie