Rex L. Peterson

Long time area farmer, Rex Loraine Peterson passed away October 8, 2014 at Indian Hills Manor after a lingering battle with cancer.
Rex was born May 3, 1927 to Lawrence E Peterson & Filles (Dority) Peterson at the family home in Perkins County. His life was spent on the farm, which was his pride and joy. He farmed until about 4 weeks before unable to continue due to the illness. All of his life he was faithful to his family. United Methodist Church, and to the Masonic Fraternity.
He graduated from Perkins County High School in 1944 and joined the Army. On November 9, 1945 he married Lois Jean Elder. To this union was born 3 children, Linda Kay, Karla AIane and Lonnie David. He served his country and returned to Ogallala where he and Jean made their home by the original farmstead. Lois Jean passed away Oct 3, 1990.
Along with farming he did carpentry work for various contractors. He helped build the Methodist Church, Adams Bank and many private homes. He was best known for his cupboards and finish work. In the early 1960's he and his brother. Max began a flower shop called the Wee Flower shop and were very successful with their arranging of flowers. Of course this was all done while they continued to farm.
Rex was best known for his lighthearted wit. He was a champion of turning a phrase and making people laugh. Little children that he did not know would often seek him in a crowd and start visiting with him. He also loved to sing and played the piano. He was a member of the Merry Madrigals, Centennials and the church choir and did his share of singing for funerals. He entertained many groups and received the Chamber of Commerce Good Neighbor award for his willingness to entertain local events. The character he is best known for is Artie Johnson the little old man who was always getting beat by Ruth Buzzi, incidentally played by his daughter, Karla.
He is a 70 year member of the Methodist Church, a Master Mason since Febr 22, 1949 and the current Jordan Medal holder of Ogalalla Lodge 159 AF & AM., a member of Ogallala Chapter #142 Order of the Eastern Star of which he was Worthy Patron 12 times. Big Mac Shrine Club and Tehama Shrine Club of which he helped young children to the Shrine Hospital and was in loads of parades dressed as Whimpy the clown.
On Sept 19,1993 Rex married Shirley Munster, who is currently living with her children in Lincoln.
Rex is preceded in death by his parents and first wife.
Survivors include his 2nd wife Shirley; children Linda Kay Sheldon (Dave), Karla Alane Lawler, Lonnie David Peterson (Sharlyn); grandchildren Monica Lynne Cherrington (Marlow), David Douglas Sheldon (Nikole), Kurt David Lawler, Sara Ann Orr (Nate) and Melissa Marie Pitner (C J); great grandchildren Shelby Jean Cherrington, Justin Curtis Cherrington, Izabella Sheldon, David Paul Sheldon II, Hunter Gage Sheldon and Carlie Ann Sheldon; brother, Max Peterson (Darlene), brother-in-law, Dale Elder (Darlene); stepchildren, Kent Munster, Sheila Munster, Corey Munster, several nieces & nephews and many friends.
Memorials are suggested to the First United Methodist Church of Ogallala or to the Masonic Lodge of Ogallala. Condolences may be shared at prairiehillsfuneralhome.com. Services will be streamed live at both the funeral home’s website and methodistchurchogallala.com.
Services will be held on Monday, October 13, 2014 at 10:00 a.m. at the First United Methodist Church in Ogallala with Rev. Chuck Rager officiating. Burial will be in the Ogallala Cemetery with Masonic Rites and military honors provided by the Keith County Veterans Organization.
Visitation will be on Sunday from 1 p.m. until 7 p.m. at the prairie Hills Funeral Home.
Prairie Hills Funeral Home of Ogallala is in charge of arrangements.