Byron E. Peterson, Jr.

Byron E. Peterson, Jr., 74, of Mount Pleasant, passed away at his home on Saturday, June 27, 2026.

Byron was born June 7, 1952, in Omaha, Nebraska, the son of Dr. Byron "Pete" and Florence (Bryant) Peterson. He graduated from Keokuk High School in 1971, and continued his education at the University of Iowa.

Throughout his life, Byron worked for Garden Florist, where he delivered flowers and worked in the greenhouse, and later as a delivery driver for Pizza Hut.

Byron was a brilliant chess player whose curiosity extended far beyond the game. He found peace in gardening and had a deep appreciation for trees, often seeing beauty and meaning in the natural world. A thoughtful writer and poet, he filled notebooks with reflections on dreams, spirituality, nature, and the mysteries of life. Those who knew him recognized a gentle soul who viewed the world through a unique and imaginative lens.

He is survived by his son, Travis; two grandchildren, Travis Jr. and Brooke; three sisters, Paula (Kevin) Hoenig of Mount Pleasant, Janet (Andrew) Long of Lockridge, and Andrea Kelly of Keokuk; along with many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a son, Jonathan.

In accordance with Byron's wishes, his body has been cremated. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Olson-Yoder Funeral Home & Crematory is caring for Byron and his family.