Carol J. Owens Peterson passed away peacefully at home on the evening of Sept. 29, 2013. She had fought a battle against pancreatic cancer for nearly two years.
Carol was born to James and Jean Owens on May 5, 1948, in Fort Collins.
As a girl on the farm, Carol belonged to the local 4-H club, winning several first and second place ribbons at the Larimer County Fair with her cow, Slo Gem.
One of the schools she attended was known as “Number 16.” It was a two-room brick schoolhouse, one of the last of its kind in northern Colorado, which stood on the northwest corner of Shields and Drake.
In 1966 she graduated from Fort Collins High School. In 1968 she married her soul-mate, Barry Peterson.
They loved traveling, especially cruises. She took her 15 and final cruise in September.
They also loved the mountains, and owned property in Crystal Lakes.
One of Carol’s enjoyments was driving around the Red Feather – Crystal Lakes area, trying to spot a moose or two. She also adored hummingbirds, columbines and lighthouses.
Their first daughter, Tanya, was born in 1972. Tammy, their second daughter, was born in 1976.
On July 29, 2011, after 28 years, Carol retired from the U.S. Post Office.
Carol was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer three months later. She never gave up, and thanks to the wonderful medical care she received, she was able to live a very full life for nearly two years.
In the summer of 2013, however, she rapidly declined. And in September she went under the care of the local hospice.
She loved her family dearly, and friends will remember her as always smiling, always a positive attitude. She had a determination that some would call stubbornness. She touched a lot of lives, and will be greatly missed.
Preceding her in death were her mother, Jean Owens (1925-1991) and her father, James A. Owens (1924-2004).
Carol is survived by husband Barry Peterson; daughters Tanya Bedan and Tammy Peterson; granddaughters Kristina and Amanda; great-grandson Nolyn; brother Jim Owens; sister Marsha Jewell; nieces and nephews; and many childhood friends still in the area, as well as friends from the Post Office.