Richard John Peters

Richard John Peters of Rochester, MN passed away on Thursday, July 9, 2020 at home after a long and courageous battle with Congestive Heart Failure. Richard was born April 17, 1950 in Rochester, MN to John and Laura Peters. He graduated from John-Marshall High School in 1969. After High School, Richard married Penny Gordon and later divorced. They had a farm north of St. Charles, MN where they raised their 3 children Daniel, David, and Mary. Richard moved to Rochester in 1992. He held many different jobs during his lifetime including being a farmer, a cook, and an assembly line worker. While working as a cook, he developed a love for cooking and eating good food. He enjoyed preparing and sharing meals with family and friends. His summer barbecues using his old-time cast-iron cook stoves were legendary. He enjoyed windmills, collecting coffee pots, and just about anything related to cooking. He was known as a storyteller and had an unmistakable laugh. He enjoyed playing Santa Claus and being mistaken by children as Santa. In 1989 he met his soul mate Clair. They shared their lives together until his passing. They were united in marriage on August 17, 2013. Richard is survived by his children, Daniel (Tina) Peters, David (Amy) Peters, and Mary (Matt) Wiskow; his grandchildren, Briar, Chance, Makenna, Walker, Kale, Jessa, Parker, Desi, Chase, Dani, Casey, and Matt; and his great-grandchildren, Braxton, AJ, and Hunter. He was preceded in death by his parents, a grandchild (Hunter), and by his special mother-in-law Granny (June Gordon). The family would like to thank the hospice workers and aides for their time and effort in making his final days at home comfortable and enjoyable. A memorial service will be on Monday, July 13, 2020 at 11 a.m. at Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes, 5421 Royal Place NW Rochester, MN 55901. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Due to Covid-19, safety guidelines and masks will be required for all visitations and services. Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes is honored to be serving the Peters family. To leave a special memory or condolence please visit www.ranfranzandvinefh.com