Earnest E. Peterson

Earnest Eugene Peterson, 75, of Olathe, passed away on October 12, 2024 at Evergreen Community of Johnson County. 

He was born on February 6, 1949 to Harvey “Guy” and Marjorie (Penrose) Peterson at Leavenworth, KS. 

On June 20, 1975, he was united in marriage to Marilyn Stambaugh, and they made their home in Olathe.

Earnest owned and operated Peterson Repair Service until the time of his retirement in 2020. He was a highly regarded and trusted member of the Olathe business community. There was a big hole in many hearts after his retirement. Many of his customers and family (since we all used him faithfully) will miss his reliability and care. His customers and friends were also considered family. Everyone who knew his work knew that he was honest and ethical, and the best there was in the HVAC business. 

Ernie’s Catholic faith was a central theme of his life. He was a longtime, active member of St. Paul Catholic Church. He was also a faithful member of the 4th Degree Assembly of St. Philippine Duchesne and St Aloysius Council of the Knights of Columbus.

Earnest is survived by his loving children Celina (Craig) Gerling, Elise Peterson, Mary Peterson, Joseph (Katie) Peterson, Andrew (Mary Beth) Peterson, fourteen grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren, his sisters, Irene (Jack) Hudgins, Joyce (Steve) Bowlin and his brother, Garry (Jill) Peterson.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Marilyn, parents Guy & Marjorie Peterson, a granddaughter, many aunts, uncles, and cousins. 

Ernie was a great example of the Catholic faith, always willing to lend a hand or offer support. He was also a family man. He loved having the family over to the house to celebrate any occasion with his delicious barbecue ribs and smoked meats, homemade barbecue sauce, smoked beans and blueberry dessert. In addition, he will always be remembered for his sense of humor that always brought a giggle or a groan! The many grandchildren, nieces and nephews will remember with fondness being called “George,” knowing that it was a term of endearment from Grandpa or Uncle Ernie. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the St. Paul Catholic Church Building Fund,https://onrealm.org/spcatholic/-/form/give/CC

To share a memory of Earnest, or to leave a message for his family, please visit the guestbook below.