Lifetime La Jara resident Paul K. Peterson, 92, passed away on March 30, 2021. He was born on December 30, 1928 in La Jara, Colorado. He was the seventh of nine children to Robert and Nellie (Poulson) Peterson. Paul spent his entire life on the Peterson Ranch West of La Jara. On April 18, 1948 Paul and Gerry Murray were married. The only time he left was to honorably serve his country in the United States Army from 1952 to 1953. Paul was past president of the San Luis Valley Cattleman’s Association and had served on the board of directors for the Monte Vista Coop. Paul will be remembered by his family and friends as a true cowboy, whether it was at home or in their New Mexico mountain range. He was a very hard worker and he worked alongside his son Bob, on the ranch into his 90’s as well as hauling cattle in his Peterbilt until the age of 91. His greatest joy was his grandchildren Sheridan and Cody.

Paul is survived by his wife of 72 years, Gerry Peterson of La Jara, his son Bob (Jody) Peterson of La Jara, his grandchildren, Cody (Elisabeth) Peterson of Gill, Colorado and Sheridan Peterson of La Jara, his great grandchildren, Madelynn Peterson and Cole Peterson as well as his siblings, Myron Peterson of La Jara, Norma Haynie of Seattle, Washington and LouAnn Gilliat of St. George, Utah and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his son Matt Peterson and his siblings, Cora Gray, Alice Gillman, Evelyn Garris, Wade Peterson and Leigh Peterson.

A graveside service will be held at 10:00 am on Saturday April 3, 2021 at the Sanford Cemetery. Reception to follow service at Bob & Jody Peterson’s home 18731 County Road 13, La Jara CO 81140. To express condolences to the family, please visit www.rogersfunerals.com

Rogers Family Mortuary in Alamosa is in care of the arrangements.