
Kevin Peterson, age 68, of New Richmond, Wisconsin, passed away unexpectedly on December 10, 2025. A beloved son, brother, father, and friend, Kevin leaves behind a legacy of kindness, loyalty, strength, and humor that touched all who knew him.
Born on May 25, 1957, in Rush City, Minnesota, Kevin grew up with a deep appreciation for family, hard work, and the simple joys of life. He carried these values throughout his long career at Andersen Windows, where he dedicated over 35 years before retiring. Kevin was known as someone who could always be counted on—steady, dependable, and genuinely invested in the people around him.
Kevin lived a simple, fulfilling life rooted in the activities he enjoyed most. His mornings weren’t complete without a good cup of coffee and a crossword puzzle. He loved the thrill of racing—whether watching the action at Cedar Lake Speedway, following snowmobile races, or catching NASCAR on TV.
Kevin also really loved attending sporting events whenever he could. If he wasn’t watching a game in person, he was almost always watching one on TV. Some of his favorite moments were spent enjoying sports with his children, his nieces and nephews, and all the kids he treated like his own, especially Maddux. Being surrounded by them—cheering, laughing, and sharing the excitement—brought him tremendous joy.
In his retirement, he especially enjoyed driving cars for Bernard’s, a job that allowed him to stay connected with people and continue doing something he loved. He could often be found buzzing on his scooter “uptown,” sharing stories, visiting with friends, and bringing a smile to anyone willing to listen. His ability to connect with others and make them feel welcome was one of his greatest gifts.
Kevin is preceded in death by his father, Raymond Peterson; his mother, Joretta (Nygaard) Peterson; many aunts and uncles; and his nephews Corey Peterson, Chad Peterson, and great nephews Tyson Rousar, Jack Ulrich, and Jordan Shilts.
He is survived by his children, Melinda (Terry) Wells and Matthew Peterson; mother of his children Mary Shilts, and his siblings Greg Peterson, Rhonda Shilts, Terry (Debbie) Peterson, Julie Peterson, Laurie (Jeff) Tarman, Brian “Willie” (Debbie) Peterson, Cindy (Rick) Melby, and Mike “Minnow” (Kerri) Peterson. Uncle Noble (Sue) Nygaard. As well as oodles of nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews, and countless friends.
A celebration of Kevin’s life was held on Monday, December 15th, from 4:00-8:00 pm at Ready Randy’s in New Richmond. A light meal was served before a short celebration of life at 7:00. Family and friends were invited to gather, share memories, and honor the life of a man who meant so much to so many. Our family would encourage you to wear Gopher, Twins, or Tigers attire.
In lieu of flowers, memorials to Shriner’s Childrens Hospital New Richmond Youth Hockey, or New Richmond Youth Baseball Association PO Box 86 New Richmond, WI 54017 are preferred.
Kevin will be deeply missed, but the kindness, laughter, and love he shared will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him.
Arrangements are with Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services.
Click here to watch the recording of the memory sharing service


14 Comments
So sad to hear of such a loss of a friend and co worker for so long,Kevin will be missed by so many,RIP my friend 🙏 prayers for the family 😞
Sending most sincere condolences to Melinda, Matthew, and families. You are in my thoughts and prayers. 🙏🙏
Sending most sincere condolences to Melinda, Matthew, and families. You are in my thoughts and prayers. 🙏🙏 Say hello to my dad! R.I.P. friend 💔
So sorry to hear about Kevin’s passing. My condolences to his children and family. He was a great guy and fun to work with at Andersen’s.
Such a loss for everyone who knew Kevin. Thoughts and prayers to the entire Peterson family.
RIP Kevin. Your humor and values will live on forever.
So sorry to hear of the loss. SHOCKED .. I just spoke to him.. Loved working with him delivering cars and trucks at Bernards , He was a guy that would help others as well…. peace for you my friend
Kevin, you we’re so much to everybody around you.\n You made everybody feel like family fly high. Keep an eye on us all. Especially the family God bless you.
Kevin Rip 🙏 and keep your eyes on your family and friends. God bless you all that knew this guy. He always had a way with words. I’m glad I am fortunate to meet this guy , kevin fly high
Kevin always represented the Peterson family well. Such a wonderful family. We’re all so blessed to be friends. Kevin was always kind and so positive to be around. I always came away feeling better because of his enthusiasm before, during, and after the game. Willie, Minnow thinking of you guys and your whole family. 🙏
The best co-worker, we had a lot of fun in the zoo crew in the 80s! Kevin was always joking and making everyone laugh, he will be missed. So sorry for your loss, prayers being sent! 🙏
Kevin you will be missed greatly! You were such a good friend! Our sympathy to all of Kevin’s Family.
My condolences go out to his ex wife Mary and his children. I worked with Kevin for many years on the stationary line at Andersens. There was never a dull moment with Kevin around. He will be deeply missed by many.
I grew up with Kevin and the rest of the Peterson family. We graduated together! He was always laughing and making others laugh! He will be missed
By all. Condolences to his family and friends! 🙏🏻
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