Traverse City, Michigan - Patricia Ann "Patty" (Himelberger) Peterson, 84, of Traverse City, Michigan, passed away peacefully on July 13, 2026, at Munson Hospice House after a battle with vascular dementia.

Patty was born on August 14, 1941, in Dearborn, Michigan. In 1972, she moved with her family to Traverse City, where she found a place she truly loved on the Old Mission Peninsula. Over the years, she called both Peninsula Drive and Neahtawanta Road home and treasured the beauty, peace, and community of the peninsula.

Patty shared 37 wonderful years of marriage with her beloved husband, William Peterson, until his passing in 1999. Their love and partnership remained an important part of her life, and she looked forward to the day when they would once again rest together at Bohemian Cemetery on Neahtawanta Peninsula.

Patty enjoyed the best of both worlds, spending winters at her home in Marco Island, Florida, and spring and summer in Traverse City. She loved the beauty of Northern Michigan, the warmth of Florida, and the time she spent with family and friends in both places.

A talented cook and baker, Patty showed her love through the meals, desserts, and gatherings she created for those around her. Her kitchen was often the gathering place where family shared food, laughter, and memories.

Patty is survived by her three sons, David Peterson, William "Bill" Peterson (Cathy), and Michael Peterson; her sister, Carol Mattia; and her eight grandchildren, Cole, Davis, Morgan, Jordan, Evelyn, Mary, Spike, and Gavin. She is also survived by many extended family members and dear friends. She was preceded in death by her husband, William Peterson.

Patty will be remembered for her gentle spirit, generous heart, love of family, and the many traditions and memories she created throughout her life.

Patty was cremated in accordance with her wishes. Her cremated remains will be interred beside her beloved William at Bohemian Cemetery on Old Mission Peninsula at a later date.

The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to the caregivers at Munson Hospice House for the compassionate care and support they provided to Patty and her family.

Her memory will live on through the many lives she touched and the family who loved her dearly.