Michael "Mike" Peterson

Michael ‘Mike’ 

Petersen

August 2, 1955 • September 14, 2025

Michael “Mike” Petersen, 70, died at Benedictine Skilled Nursing Facility in Owatonna,  Sunday, September 14, 2025.

A celebration of life will be held at the Boldt Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Faribault, Saturday, October 25, 2025, from 1 to 4 p.m. 

Mike was born August 2, 1955 to Louie and Mary (O’Malley) Petersen in Benson, Minnesota. He was a graduate of Benson High School Class of 1973 and later moved to Minneapolis, where he attended the University of Minnesota. Mike was a skilled craftsman and woodworker. He spent most of his career as a fabricator at the Science Museum of Minnesota, where he built many amazing exhibits that he subsequently took on tour to other museums across the country. He was also a self-taught musician who played the keyboard and harmonica and enjoyed jam sessions with other talented artists and friends. He always downplayed his musical abilities, calling himself a “musical hack”. 

Mike is survived by his son, Gabe; sisters: Sandy (Joe) Pothen and Rose Anne Petersen; brother: Steve (Rosemary) Petersen; sister-in-law: Kathy Petersen; mother of his son, Jean Hartelt; many nieces, nephews and cousins. 

He was preceded in death by his grandparents: Jack and Annie O’Malley and Ludwig and Margrathe Petersen; parents: Louie and Mary Petersen; brother: Tom Petersen; niece: Megan Pothen Graham; many aunts, uncles and friends. 

A special thank you to the Allina Hospice, Owatonna Division. They are amazing. 

In place of flowers, a donation may be made to Allina Hospice in memory of Michael.

Visit www.boldtfuneralhome.com for more information and the guestbook.