Yvonne J. Petersen Obituary

Yvonne (Sill) Petersen, daughter of Albert and Hazel Sill, was born in Manchester, Iowa, where she grew up on the family farm with her three brothers. She went on to study Speech and Communication at Rockford College and at UW-Madison. While in Rockford she went on a fateful blind date where she met John Petersen, to whom she was married for 60 years. Yvonne is survived by their children, John (Cheryl), Robert (Cathy), David (Carol), Greggar (Joan), Anne (Eric) and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Yvonne was incredibly kind of heart and strong of mind and she brought these traits to raising her children and her many artistic passions. She did not ask if the glass was half empty or full but instead asked to have the glass filled so she could create a beautiful bouquet; a garden vignette; a display at the Froedert Hospital gift shop, where she volunteered for many years; or an ever-changing interior design. Her passion and energy for making something beautiful for others will be greatly missed.

John and Yvonne were founding members of the Unitarian Universalist Church West and strong supporters of the Milwaukee Symphony, Art Museum, and public journalism. A private family celebration of life will be held this summer. Yvonne requested that friends who want to celebrate her life do something meaningful with their families. In lieu of flowers, Yvonne's family would appreciate support for the Art Museum or the charity of your choosing.