Constance E. Strawser Peterson
August 6, 1937 ~ December 22, 2017
Constance E. Strawser Peterson, 80, of Painesville, passed away Friday, December 22, 2017 at the David Simpson Hospice House in Cleveland. She was born in Tunnelton, WV to Harry and Jessie (Wolfe) Strawser on August 6, 1937, and married J. Lowell Peterson on August 2, 1959 in Brookhaven, WV.
Connie was amazing. She skipped 2 years of high school and completed a 4 year West Virginia University education in 3 years. At 19 years old she signed a teaching contract with Painesville City Schools, and began a 30 year career inspiring hundreds of students. Connies teaching ability was complimented by her artistic bend, and she influenced all around her with wonderful painting, floral arrangements, and wedding cake creations. After retirement she continued to shape young lives as a foster parent for almost a decade. She would give anything possible to someone in need, and never askednever needed or wantedanything in return. Connie enjoyed a can of Coke in the morning rather than coffee, and loved gardening and yard work. She extended her Love beyond bounds….
She is survived by her husband, J. Lowell Peterson; children, Jamie (Camille Kraeplin) Peterson, Ben Peterson, Matthew Peterson, Peter (Dawn) Peterson, Koda (Desiree) Hawk; grandchildren, Madeline, Aaron, Ian, Harlow, Jeremiah, Jacob, Isaiah, Caleb, Conner; sisters, Elizabeth Strawser, Paula (Bob Westbrook) Strawser; brothers, Harry (Becky) Strawser, Doug (Bonnie) Strawser; many loved nieces, nephews, and foster children. Connie is preceded in death by her parents and sisters Nadine and Glenna.
Friends may call 10am-12pm Friday December 29, 2017 at The Behm Family Funeral Home 26 River St. Madison, OH 44057. Funeral service will follow at 12pm at the funeral home. Elder David Webster of the Church of Jesus Christ Kirtland Restoration Branch will preside.
In lieu of flowers, family asks for donations to the Lake County Foster Parent Association, 177 Main Street, Painesville, Ohio 44077.
Condolences and obituary at www.behmfuneral.com
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Linda and I were saddened when we heard of Connie's death but we also know that the instant she passed from this world she was welcomed home to here new home with Jesus and all the saints that have gone before her. She is blessed to spend her first Christmas in heaven. Linda and I will always be thankful to her and family for taking care of our children while they were in foster care. When we adopted them not only did they become part of our family but she did too. Blessing to you all. Alex
My heart is heavy hearing about the passing of this great lady. She was an inspiration helping me learn the ropes at Manchester Elementary. She was a wonderful friend and will be greatly missed.
I'm so sorry for your loss. She was the nicest person I have ever met. She gave hope and inspiration to so many. When I saw her a couple of weeks ago she remembered me and my family as though we had been in constant contact, yet it had been years. The world around us is a little darker without her shining example. But she's dancing with the angels now, and her glow lives on in her children and grandchildren. May God bless you all.
Dear Friends, I have sent you an email. Praise God for such a lovely person, as we get to know her through the testimonies of others, and the testimonies of your lives.
Richard and Robin Neill
I am so sorry for your loss. Such an amazing woman.
Lowell, our hearts go out to you and your family. It is always hard to understand how people are taken from us, but find comfort in knowing you were a special part of a well-lived life. We love you Lowell.
I recently heard it said that you die two deaths. The first when you stop breathing. The second is when your name is said for the last time. Connie, because of your grace, humility, sincerity, enthusiasm and unbridled love your essence will live on in those of us fortunate enough to have been blessed by your presence for eternity You have earned a place of honor in our hearts and minds and I trust our Father has a glorious place of honor for you in His Kingdom.
My nominee for world's best teacher.
My favorite teacher in school! I was blessed to get to know her better later, when I became an adult.