Elizabeth Louise

Peterson

Elizabeth Louise Peterson (née Semper) of Greendale, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully, surrounded by the love of her family, on November 9, 2026, at the age of 85.

Betty is survived by her devoted husband of 63 years, Richard Peterson; her children, Susan (Michael) Eisner and David (Harper) Peterson; her grandchildren, Matthew (Corine), Emma, and Tess Eisner; her great-grandson, Samuel; and a soon-to-be great-granddaughter whom she eagerly anticipated meeting. She is also lovingly remembered by her brother, Thomas (Sandra) Semper, and her nephew, Michael Semper.

She was preceded in death by her father, Louis Semper; her mother, Elma Hennig (née Atkinson, later Semper); and her stepfather, Art Hennig.

Betty and Dick's love story began at Fenton High School in Bensenville, Illinois. They started dating during their senior year and married in 1963. Together, they built a life centered on family, faith, and community. Their journey took them from Madison, New Jersey, where Susan was born, to West Allis, Wisconsin, where David was born. Over the years, they made their home in Hales Corners, West Bend, Oak Creek, and ultimately Greendale.

Betty loved reading, gardening, and spending time with family and friends. She was known for her servant’s heart and gave her time to many organizations, including her church, the Scouts, the library, hospice, Meals on Wheels, and the historical society. She participated in Bible studies and book groups, finding joy in learning and sharing with others. For many years, she also served meals and greeted guests at The Gathering, which provides free meals to those in need.

Some of her family’s favorite memories include summers spent in Fish Creek in Door County, reading books while floating on a raft with a toe hooked around the buoy line, listening to baseball games on the radio, and gathering around the table for games. There were many trips to Dubuque, Iowa, to visit beloved grandparents and relatives, and summers spent hosting her mother and Art when Texas was too hot. Family traditions included Fourth of July celebrations, homemade brandy slushes, parade floats, visits to David when he lived in Colorado and Minneapolis, visits with Susan and her family out East, and many memorable vacations together.

Above all else, Betty was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend. She showered her family with affection and made everyone feel welcomed, valued, and cared for. There was a sparkle in her eye and a warmth in her beautiful smile, and her hugs brought comfort to many. She shared a unique and special bond with each of her grandchildren, spending countless hours playing Candyland, where she was affectionately known as "Grandma Nut," along with endless games of Uno and other family favorites. As her grandchildren grew older, they never doubted that Grandma was their biggest fan, proud of their accomplishments and steadfast in her love for them.

Betty's legacy lives on through her family, her friends, and the many other lives touched by her kindness, generosity, and unwavering love. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

A memorial service will be held in Betty’s honor at Hartson Funeral Home (11111 W Janesville Rd, Hales Corners WI, 53130) on November 21^st, 2026. Visitation will be from 12 noon to 2 pm, with a service to follow at 2 pm.

In lieu of flowers, please direct memorial contributions in Betty’s name to The Gathering of Southeast Wisconsin.