Stephen Glent Petersen, 92

Stephen Glent Petersen, a dedicated and patriotic professional engineer with a passion for photography, peacefully passed away in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. Born on Aug. 6, 1931, in Mahopac, N.Y., he was the son of Ernest Willing Petersen and Gunhilde Christina Johansen.

Throughout his illustrious career, Stephen's commitment to his work as a professional was unmatched. He founded Street Traffic Studies, LTD in the D.C. area and served a wide range of clients with unwavering dedication. Even in retirement, Stephen remained active, working for the Census Bureau and managing a traffic data counting business well into his 80s.

Beyond his professional achievements, Stephen found joy in various passions. His love for capturing moments through photography allowed him to preserve the beauty he saw around him. He took pleasure in observing bald eagles in the Cd'A area and embarked on day trips exploring vintage transportation modes like planes, trains and automobiles. His adventurous spirit led him to volunteer on the Parking Commission of the city of Coeur d'Alene and pursue extension classes in geology at local universities. In his later years, he returned to a passion of his youth and enjoyed building wooden models, especially with his son, Eric.

In addition to his professional and personal pursuits, Stephen proudly served in the Army during Korea at White Sands Proving Grounds in New Mexico. His enduring love story with Bernadine blossomed despite time apart while he was stationed there as they wrote to each other listening to the same radio broadcast each night.

One of Stephen's cherished accomplishments was reconnecting with his father's extended family in Australia. The trip to Adelaide and the outback to meet relatives brought him immense pride. Travel played a significant role in Stephen's life as he explored the world with Bernadine by his side — from Russia in the '70s to memorable cruises across Alaska, Panama and Europe.

Known for his warm personality and storytelling prowess, Stephen touched the hearts of everyone around him. Described as sweet, humble and distinguished by those who knew him best, he had a passion for sharing stories — whether it was bonding over "Star Trek" episodes with his daughter or recounting tales of how he met Bernie as a "pick-up on the beach."

Stephen Glent Petersen is survived by his son, Eric Joren Petersen, and daughter Karen Frances Petersen. He is also survived by Eric's wife, Angela Ruff Petersen, and sister Arlene Gerson of Wylie, Texas. His beloved wife, Bernadine Fela Petersen, preceded him in death in 2020 after 64 years of marriage.

A memorial service celebrating Stephen's remarkable life will be held at English Funeral Chapel and Crematory in Coeur d'Alene on June 15 at 3 p.m. It is an opportunity to honor and cherish the memories shared with an exceptional man whose kindness and dedication touched countless lives. May he rest in peace, knowing his legacy continues through those fortunate enough to have known him.