The people of Herman and its vicinity were shocked last Thursday morning when word reached them of the sudden death of Mrs. Peter L. Petersen at her home about five miles southwest of here. Mrs. Petersen had been suffering from nervous trouble for some time past and had returned home one day last week from Omaha where she had gone for treatment. She seemed to be improving and on the morning of her death seemed to be in excellent spirits. She had walked up into the orchard and there her body was later found by her husband, death being caused by apoplexy. Dr. D. W. Bell, of Blair, was called but upon his arrival found she had passed away some time before.

Gertrude Petersen was born in Washington County, Nebr., November 2, 1884 and died at the home near Herman April 28, 1927 at the age of 42 years, 5 months, and 26 days. She was united in marriage to Peter L. Petersen, October 26, 1904 and they had spent all their wedded life in this community. To this happy union four children were born, Earl, who died in infancy, Earl E., Raymond O. and Dorothy L, all at home. These children with their father are left to mourn the death of their dear, mother and wife. She also leaves her mother and father, Mr. and Mrs. Peterson, of Arlington, Neb., three sisters and two brothers. Mrs. Grace Elsner, of Arlington, Nebr., Mrs. Ethel Parkening of Iola, Kansas, Mrs. Florence Planck, of Arlington, Leslie Peterson of Arlington, and Shirley Peterson of Herman.

Mrs. Petersen was baptized in infancy and had been a member of the Orum Lutheran Church for a number of years. She tried to practice the principles of Jesus Christ in her life every day. She had been a member of Herman Chapter No. 216 O. E. S. for the past four years and was a good member of this order. Having lived all her life in this community she was known far and near and was loved and honored by all. She was of a quiet disposition but was always ready to help all who came to her for assistance by shedding far the love which fill her life.

Servant of God well done!

The glorious warfare’s past

The battle’s fought, the race is won.

And thou art crowned at last

The funeral was held at the Rose Hill Church Sunday afternoon at 2 o’clock, Rev. T. J. Reese, pastor of the Baptist Church officiating. Music was furnished by Mrs. C. E. Johnson, Mrs. L. V. Ackerman, C. R. Gray and red Robertson with Mrs. L. C. Hanson at the organ. The Herman Chapter O. E. S. had charge of the services at the grave.

Obituaries courtesy of the Washington County Genealogical Society. Newspaper clippings on file at the Blair Public library.