Doug "Pete" Peterson

Douglas (Doug) Allen Peterson made his final journey to the biggest Hall of Fame on August 24, 2024 surrounded by his loving family. He was born on October 28, 1942 in Brookings, SD to Claude and Ardath (Sherwood) Peterson.  Doug grew up in Brookings and Watertown, South Dakota.  He graduated from Watertown High School in 1960. He then continued his education at South Dakota State University, graduating in 1964 with a degree in Economics.

On August 16, 1964 in Lemmon, SD he married his college sweetheart, Lorilee Smith.  To this union three children were born, Shari, David and Jodi. They recently celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary with their family.   His first job out of college was teaching at Watertown High School where he was also the Head Basketball coach from 1965-1968.

Doug and Lori moved to Rapid City in 1977. Doug worked in the banking industry until he retired at the age of 69.  Doug was involved in the community and was a part of several organizations including the Rapid City Diplomats. He also was a blood donor. Doug and Lori spent their time in retirement in Apache Junction, AZ and Rapid City.

Doug had a zest for life and he and Lori were constantly dancing, laughing and enjoying each other's company.  They loved to ski and travel to the ocean. These adventures included their multitude of friends and family. They were always the last couple on the dance floor. Doug had a connection with so many people always enjoyed making new friends.

Doug's love for his family was immense. He was a kind, generous upbeat husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. He was everyone's favorite bud. The endless hiking,  golfing, basketball, card games, and pickle ball was treasured family time. He loved spending time with his grandchildren and his great grandchildren. He was a hands on grandpa. Doug loved his nightly ice cream and always shouted "Who's ready for ice cream?"

Doug's second love behind family was his love of all sports and his beloved SDSU. The biggest Jackrabbit there ever was!  Will try to summarize all his accomplishments!

Doug's sports career started in Watertown High School where he was a multi-sport athlete. He received All State honors and held many records. His basketball team won the State Championship in 1959. He was the quarterback for football and was recruited by Nebraska and SDSU, but chose SDSU.

At South Dakota State University he received 9 varsity letters in football, basketball, and baseball. He was co-captain for all three sports his senior year. He played on the 1963 National Championship basketball team. He started and played all 40 minutes of the game.

A recent joy was attending SDSU's National Football Championship games in Frisco, Texas, creating great memories with family and alumni.

Doug is a member of the Watertown High School Sports Hall of Fame, the South Dakota High School Boys Basketball Hall of Fame and SDSU Sports Hall of Fame as well as an Honorary Captain for the SDSU Football all- time greatest players.

As the years went by, Doug continued to play sports and was also a referee and umpire for youth sports where he received a 25-year certificate. Golfing was Doug's passion, and he golfed seven hole-in-one's with three of them coming in the last two years.

Doug is survived by his forever sweetheart Lori, three children and spouses, daughter Shari Rogers (Darren Doyle), son David (Jennifer) Peterson,  daughter Jodi (Kyle) Bell, 10 grandchildren, Jordyn (Brandon), Austin, Haylee, Brooke (Carson), Rockwell, Charlie, Krista (Matt),  Jada (Austin), Braxton, Berklee; two great grandchildren, Kai and Ryker. His sister Judy (Bruce) Burrell, his brother-in-law Richard (Judy) Smith; his cousin Bob (Mary Lou) Sherwood, and his Collins cousins; and numerous golf buddies.

A Celebration of Life open house will be held at Red Rock Golf Course, 6520 Birkdale Dr, Rapid City, SD on September 29, 2024 from 10am-1pm.

All attendees may wear casual attire and wear blue, yellow or white in honor of Pete.

Arrangements with Osheim & Schmidt Funeral Home.