Every man wants to leave a legacy when he departs this world, some build skyscrapers, some form foundations, some become movie stars. But the real legacy is the one that lives on.

Dean Petersen left an amazing legacy. His sons and daughters; his grandchildren and great grandchildren. They are his living legacy because of the love, the discipline, the kindness, the work ethic, and the values that he instilled in them along with their mother. His legacy will live on as they pass on his teachings to the next generations.

Dean Howard Petersen was born Saturday, August 3, 1935 in Sioux City, Iowa and adopted by his parents Paul and Edna (Stortz) Petersen. Dean graduated from East High School and enrolled in the United States Army. Following his service, he went to Hansons Mechanical Trade School in Minnesota. It was here that his met his sweetheart. His flirtatious towel snap in that local laundromat ignited a spark that burned for 65 years. They were married on August 3, 1957, on his birthday just so he would never forget. The love and respect that grew between them over the years is something that most won’t find in a lifetime.

He was the incredible patriarch of the Petersen family. A family that would be his highest accomplishment. A legacy to last a lifetime. His lessons of honesty, integrity, kindness, and love laid the foundation of his family. His work ethic guaranteed security for the love of his life and their children. Dean had a brilliant mind and exquisite memory. A retired fireman after 20 years, he quickly conquered entrepreneurship. Owning and operating a small mechanics shop in his garage, he got his first taste of bureaucratic freedom. His determination then allowed him to maintain Petersen Coins for 50 years. Dean and his wife traveled the country to attend coin and postcard shows. He loved classic cars, all collectables, antiques, all kinds of Sioux City memorabilia, and of course trains. He was a member of the Numismatic Association and also was the President of Local 7 (the fire department union) for 7.5 years.

We can’t imagine a world without Dean Howard Petersen in it. An amazing son, husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather. He has always been such a force to be reckoned with. He struck fear in his children, but could be as gentle as a baby bunny with a grandchild. His love for his wife is unrivaled; a love like theirs is sought after, but rarely attained. His intelligence is epic, as he was always happy to prove to his children. His business prowess is epic as he proved over and over to his business acquaintances and anyone who tried to best him. He is respected by his peers, all of them from firemen, collectors, bankers, and adversaries.

Dean passed away at home with his sweetheart by his side on Saturday, May 7, 2022 at the age of 86. He loved Janice through his last breath, leaving this world with her hand in his.

Those left to cherish Dean’s memory are his beloved wife, Janice; his sons Steven (Bonnie), Daniel (Robyn), and David; his daughters Debra and Diana; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Dean was preceded in death by his parents and his daughter Sheryl.