2011 Assembly Joint Resolution 68
ENROLLED JOINT RESOLUTION
Relating to: the life and public service of Richard Peterson.
Whereas, Richard Peterson was born on July 17, 1920, to Ely and Lattie Peterson in Waupaca, Wisconsin, where he lived until he graduated from Waupaca High School. In 1936, while still a high school student, Richard joined the National Guard; and
Whereas, Richard Peterson began his college career at the University of Wisconsin in Madison in 1938. His education was interrupted in October 1940 when he was called to serve his country as a member of the 32nd Red Arrow Division of the National Guard. Richard served on active duty for five years during World War II, and received his honorable discharge in November 1945; and
Whereas, Richard Peterson, while stationed in Victoria, Texas, met and married Irene Price on December 25, 1942. After his discharge, Richard and Irene returned to Madison where Richard completed his education and earned his Doctor of Law degree. Having earned a high scholastic rating, he was invited to participate in the Honors Convocation at graduation time; and
Whereas, Richard Peterson opened a law office in Clintonville, Wisconsin. In the spirit of service he rejoined the National Guard, until his retirement in 1963 at the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. His unit was sent to Washington state during the Cuban Missile Crisis. While in Washington, he served as Judge Advocate in the 32nd Division's legal department; and
Whereas, Richard Peterson was elected to the Wisconsin state assembly in 1950 as a representative for Waupaca County, and was reelected for the next seven terms. He served as chairman of the Assembly Committee on Revision. Additionally, he sat as a member on the committees of: Veteran and Military Affairs, Education, Insurance and Banking, and Taxation and Judiciary. Notably, in 1956, he was appointed chairman of the Veterans Home Committee—a special legislative committee which was instrumental in ensuring the future of King Veterans Home; and
Whereas, Richard Peterson moved with Irene to a farm they purchased in Royalton in 1972. Deer Crossing Antique Shop was started a few years later in a building on the property. Profits from the business were donated to nonprofit organizations; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the
assembly, the senate concurring, That the members of the Wisconsin legislature honor the life of Richard Peterson. We join his family, friends, and the community in memorializing his exemplary service to the United States of America, Waupaca County, and the state of Wisconsin; and, be it further
Resolved, That the assembly chief clerk shall provide a copy of this joint resolution to Richard's wife Irene, and his sons Eric, Richard, and Randall.
