Zelma Marguerite Peterson Obituary

We bid farewell to Zelma Marguerite Peterson (Smith Center, Kansas), whose journey of life gracefully concluded on February 26, 2026 at the age of 96. Zelma touched countless lives with warmth and kindness, leaving behind cherished memories that will forever echo in hearts. Family and friends are welcome to leave their condolences on this memorial page and share them with the family.

She was predeceased by: her parents, Matilda Mary Alvina Ryan (Bliss) and William James Ryan; her son Joel (Bob); her brother Bill Ryan; her siblings-in-law, Marilyn Ryan, Arden Peterson and JoAnn Peterson; her sons-in-law, Mick Quinn and Ben Bender; and her great grandchildren, Kaine and Trace Henderson.

She is survived by: her friend Dorothy Devlin; her husband Robert Lamoine Peterson; her family Lord; her brother Jim Ryan; her sister-in-law Colleen Ryan; her nieces and nephews, Lana Minner (Lyle), Lisa Bender, Lori Siemsen (Steve), Lila Bohrer (Roger), Leah Meyer (Keith) and Lyna Mace; and her grandchildren, Amber Henderson, Eric Quinn (Michelle), Brooke Halverson (Scott), Lance Stange (Amilyn), Chandra Bailey (Barry), BJ Bender (April), Gretchen Spittka (Julian), Clay Siemsen (Jaci), Clark Siemsen (Domonik), Clint Siemsen (Layce), Johanna Grossman (Nick), Rachel Abler (Brent), Emma Fortner (Clark), Jerrod Meyer (Heather), Drue Meyer, Kalen Mace, Brandon Mace (Jessica) and Lynzee Frieling (Brody). She is also survived by 45 great grandchildren, nieces, nephews and many friends.

Memorials may be given to SunPorch of Smith County or Thornburg Church.