Donald L. Peterson, 83, of Genoa passed away on Tuesday, May 23, 2023 peacefully at his home surrounded by his loving family.

Don was born in Sycamore (delivered by his father) on October 7, 1939 to LaVerne and Jeanne (Hanna) Peterson.  He was united in marriage to Nayna Lynn Saunders on April 16, 1966 and they spent the next 57 years together farming and raising a family.

Don was a farmer his whole life raising livestock and grain on the family farm.  He proudly served in the United States Marine Corps Reserves.  He worked for Curran Contracting for 34 years.

Locally, he was President of the Charter Grove Cemetery Board, a member of the Faith United Methodist Church, serving on numerous committees and a member of the Northern Illinois Steam Power Club where he shared his restored tractors each year.  Don found a way to make a friend everywhere he went, and he always managed to find a way to make the day better for a friend or stranger.

Don is survived by his loving wife, Nayna; daughter, Deanna (Brian) Bazan of Plano; son, Bill (Liz) Peterson of Genoa; four grandchildren, Ashley and Cody Peterson, Hannah and Matthew Bazan; sister, Louise (Tom) Hoffman; nieces, Renee (Keith) Krabbe, Heather (Rick) Wilkinson and Brandi (Shane) McAuley; and numerous cousins.

He is preceded in death by his parents and his nephews, Roger and Ron Hoffman.

His visitation will be Wednesday, May 31st from 3:00-8:00 PM at the Slater-Butala Funeral Home in Genoa.

His memorial service will be on Thursday, June 1st at 11:00 AM at the Faith United Methodist Church, 325 S. Stott, Genoa, IL.   Burial will be at the Charter Grove Cemetery.

A luncheon will follow the burial at the Church.

In lieu of flowers, memorial can be made to the Faith United Methodist Church of Genoa or Northern Illinois Hospice in care of the Slater-Butala Funeral Home, 132 W. Main, Genoa, IL. 60135.

To sign the online guest book, go to www.ButalaFuneralHomes.com