Thomas Peterson, 80 of Le Mars, Iowa, passed away surrounded by his family on Friday, December 15, 2023 at his home.

Funeral Service will be 11:30 a.m., Wednesday, December 20, 2023 at St. John's Lutheran Church in Le Mars. Military Honors will be provided by Wasmer American Legion Post 241 of Le Mars. Burial will be at Hillside Cemetery at a later date. Visitation with the family present will begin at 4:00 p.m. with a Prayer Service at 7:00 p.m., all on Tuesday, December 19, 2023 at Rexwinkel Funeral Home of Le Mars.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be directed to Ronald McDonald House in Sioux City, Le Mars Little League, or Wet Nose Rescue in Le Mars.

Thomas James Peterson was born on November 6, 1943 in Le Mars to James and Mildred (Nielsen) Peterson. He grew up on the family farm near Remsen and graduated from Remsen Union High School in 1962. Tom enlisted in the United States Navy in 1964, served in active duty until 1966, and was honorably discharged in 1969. Tom was united in marriage to Charlene Musselman on March 21, 1970 at Wesley Methodist Church in Sioux City, Iowa. They lived in Sioux City for two years before making their home in Le Mars. Tom worked for a few years in a packing plant, co-owned and operated Tom and Jerry's Antiques in Le Mars, and eventually retired from Wells in 2005.

Tom was a lifelong wheeler, dealer, and collector of antiques. He never missed a rummage sale, auction, or the chance to stop at a thrift shop. He enjoyed playing Bingo, going golfing, taking his chances at scratch tickets, and woodworking. He had a special love for animals, especially cats. In his younger years, he coached many sports for his children and his love for sports continued throughout his life. He loved attending local Le Mars Bulldog games and cheering on the Minnesota Vikings and Twins. His favorite time was spent attending his grandchildren's sporting events.

Tom was a member of the Wasmer Amerion Legion and St. John's Lutheran Church in Le Mars. He was a previous board member for the Le Mars Little League and the Plymouth County Museum Board.

Tom is survived by his wife of 53 years, Charlene Peterson; daughter, Sarah Nelson (Paul Hassman) and her children, Abigail and Cody Nelson; son, Cody (Dawn) Peterson and their sons, Conner and Chase Peterson; sister, Carol (Phil) Ritz; siblings in law: Wendy (Rick) Oldenkamp, Ted (Mary) Musselman, Vickie (John) Staiert, Brian (Christine) Musselman, and Randy Musselman; goddaughter, Cheryl Meller; cat, Cheeto; many nieces, nephews, and other extended relatives.

Tom is preceded in death by his parents; grandson, Derek Peterson; sister, Gloria (Jerry) Trienen; parents in law, Glenn and Mary Musselman; brother in law, Gary Musselman; and beloved cat, Missy.