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