James Peterson, 84, Owatonna

James "Jim" Irvin Peterson passed away peacefully to be with our Lord on Nov. 16, 2022. He was 84 years old.

Jim was born in Stanley, Wis., on Sept. 25, 1938, the son of the late Irvin & Eunice (Heiberger) Peterson. After graduating from high school in Stanley, Jim went to school for computer training. Upon entering the Army in 1960, the Army quickly called upon his computer skills to help develop the beginning stages of computer technology in the Army and received an Army Commendation Medal for meritorious service upon his discharge from the Army.

Following the Army, Jim began computer technology for Giant Foods, and over the next four decades made Giant Foods a leader in computer technology. He led many changes within the supermarket industry including product scanning technology, which was then adapted by many industries. In the early 1980s, Jim met and fell in love with the beautiful Donna Trenda, whom he married in 1983. They enjoyed doing many things together, especially travel, and enjoying their home on the Wye River. In retirement, Jim became a very prolific, talented commercial artist producing many quality, inspirational paintings. Jim is survived by Donna, his wife of nearly 40 years; brother, Thomas (Betty); and many family members. He is predeceased by his parents and by his brothers Donald and Richard, as well as two sisters-in-law, Toni Peterson and Judy Peterson. Funeral Mass will be held Friday, Dec. 9, at 11 a.m., at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Owatonna, with burial following at Sacred Heart Cemetery. Military honors will be provided by the Steele County Funeral unit. Visitation will begin at 10 a.m. The family wishes to express grateful appreciation to the staff at Willowbrooke Court at Heron Point for their care and concern for Jim during these recent years. For more information or to leave an online condolence message go to www.megercares.com.