John Frank Peterson, age 63, of Elwood, NE passed away at his home in Elwood on Monday, February 16, 2026.

John was born March 14, 1962 in McCook, NE to parents Alfred Frank and Ethel J. (Vaughn) Peterson. He was one of five siblings and attended school in Trenton, NE, graduating with the Class of 1980. John then went on to attend the Vocational Technical College in Sidney, NE, obtaining a degree in Diesel Mechanics.

On November 25, 1983, John married Kate (Ryan) Peterson in Indianola, NE. The couple was blessed with two children. In1997, John began a lifelong career with the Nebraska Department of Roads at the McCook and Elwood locations.

In his free time, John enjoyed spending time with his family. He was also an avid gun collector.

John was preceded in death by his parents; father and mother in law, James and Nellie Ryan; infant daughter, Rebecca; two brothers, Jerry Peterson and Dan Peterson; brother in laws, Roger Cline, Roady Ryan and Hank Ryan; and two nephews, Jason Cline and Justin Peterson.

Those left to cherish his memory include his wife, Kate Peterson of Elwood, NE; son, Kyle (Patty) Peterson of McCook, NE and grandchildren, James, Xavier, Rebecca and Justin; sisters, Liz Cline of Grand Island, NE and Susie (Jerry) Brunswick of McCook, NE; sister in law, Cindy Peterson of McCook, NE; and a host of extended family members.

Memorial contributions are suggested in John’s name for future designation and may be directed to Carpenter Breland Funeral Home, c/o the Peterson Family, PO Box 476, McCook, NE 69001.

Visitation will be held from 5pm to 7pm on Wednesday, February 18, 2026 at Carpenter Breland Funeral Home in McCook.

A Funeral Service will be held at 10:30am on Thursday, February 19, 2026 at Carpenter Breland Funeral Home with Pastor Jeff Donelan officiating.

Private inurnment of cremains will take place at a later date.