Jean Kathryn Peterson, 76

On the morning of March 22, 2022, Jean Kathryn Peterson died peacefully in her sleep at the age of 76, at her daughter’s home in Hayden, Idaho. Jean was born in West Virginia on Dec. 15, 1946, to Gene and Virginia Davis (nee Shirley). Jean’s father was in the military and the family moved several times during his service. Jean lived much of her younger days in Troy, Idaho, where she was primarily cared for by “Grandma Jennie and Grampa Harry” Bachman. Jean attended Troy middle school, junior high and high school. During high school, Jean was loved and admired by her classmates, enjoyed going to dances and was voted Homecoming Queen.

Jean married Frank Peterson of Troy, and they later lived in Seattle, WA for several years until their divorce. Jean attended cosmetology school in Seattle, Wash., and later obtained an instructor of cosmetology license in Idaho. Jean had an extensive career as a cosmetologist, and she especially loved being a teacher at Mr. Leon’s Beauty School in Moscow, Idaho. Several of Jean’s former students stayed in touch with her over the years and often thanked her for the patience and kindness that she showed to them. Jean was able to satisfy her free spirited and fiercely independent nature when she moved back to Seattle and lived and worked in the University District. Jean worked as a cosmetologist “right on the Avenue,” and she enjoyed talking with the many people she would meet from diverse cultures. She particularly liked mingling, shopping and sampling different ethnic foods at the numerous local street fairs and events.

Jean spent the last 25 years living in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, and finally retired at the age of 72. During her retirement, Jean enjoyed spending time with family and friends. Jean was an avid reader, and she especially enjoyed poring over spy novels and books on world history. Jean loved to crochet and garden and delighted in taking nature walks through local parks and scenic areas. Jean loved attending local theatre, particularly musicals. Jean remained a steadfast and loyal fan of the Seattle Seahawks and could hold her own while talking sports with anyone. Jean was considered a savvy Pinochle player and loved playing board games. No one remembers Jean ever losing a game of Trivial Pursuit.

Jean was preceded in death by her former husband Frank and is survived by their daughter Lisa (Larry), and sons Travis (Spokane, Wash.), and Vincent (Coeur d’Alene, Idaho), as well as seven grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Jean will be dearly missed and remembered for her kindness and fierce loyalty that she showed to her family and friends. Jean was a true blessing to everyone who knew her, and she will be treasured in our hearts forever.

A remembrance of Jean’s life will be held at The Hayden Lake Eagles Hall, 1520 W. Wyoming Avenue, Hayden, ID, on Saturday, July 23, 2022, at 2 p.m. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Hospice of North Idaho at 2290 W. Prairie Ave, Coeur d’Alene, ID 83815, or online at hospiceofnorthidaho.org.

Yates Funeral Home is entrusted with Jean’s final care. Please visit Jean’s online memorial and sign her guestbook at yatesfuneralhomes.com