Longtime Illinois Resident Robert Thomas Peterson Dies at 89

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Robert Thomas Peterson, a longtime resident of Gladstone, Illinois, passed away on March 10, 2026, at the age of 89. Peterson served in the U.S. Army and had a 32-year engineering career at Case Manufacturing in Burlington, Iowa, before retiring in 2000. He was also known for his passion for restoring antique cars and trucks, as well as his love of traveling throughout the U.S. and Europe with his late wife, Carol.

Why it matters

Peterson's life story reflects the experiences of many Midwestern Americans of his generation, including military service, long-term employment at a major manufacturer, and a retirement filled with hobbies and travel. His passing marks the end of an era for his local community.

The details

After graduating from Monmouth High School in 1955, Peterson served in the U.S. Army until 1988. He then went on to earn a bachelor's degree from Western Illinois University and worked for Prudential Insurance and Boggs Auto Trim before beginning a 32-year career at Case Manufacturing in Burlington, Iowa, retiring in 2000. Peterson and his wife, Carol, also owned and operated the Country Fun Restaurant, Bar, and Bowling Center in Biggsville, Illinois from 1977 to 1993. In his free time, Peterson was an active member of the Iowa Old Geezers Hot Rodders Association, restoring antique cars and trucks.

• Robert Thomas Peterson was born on December 15, 1936, in Alexis, Illinois.
• Peterson served in the U.S. Army from 1955 until his honorable discharge in 1988.
• Peterson married his wife, Carol Ann Bielser, on October 26, 1955.
• Peterson and his wife celebrated their 68th wedding anniversary in October 2023.
• Carol Peterson passed away on March 2, 2024.
• Robert Thomas Peterson passed away on March 10, 2026, at the age of 89.