Kerry Jon Petersen, 55, of Mankato, passed away Aug. 30, 2009.

Private services were held at Ft. Snelling National Cemetery, Minneapolis. Kerry grew up in Albert Lea. He was a graduate of Albert Lea High School, Albert Lea Vocational School and Austin Community College. Kerry had many achievements in his short life. He was a proud soldier of the United States Army earning many badges and ribbons, after his military service he earned his Bachelor of Science degree at Mankato State University. He loved his muscle cars and his dog Cindy and was an avid fan of the Vikings football team.

He is survived by his father, Lawrence Petersen, Puerto Vallarta, Mexico; brother, Ricky Jaye, Minneapolis; sister, LaChelle Petzer, and husband Robert of Sachse, Texas; nephew, Noah Ellis and wife Michelle of Riverside, Calif.; niece, Tiffany Ellis, of McKinney, Texas; nephew, Ethan Petzer, of Sachse, Texas; close and dear friends, Bob and Margaret Scott, of Mankato; his life long best friend, Kurt Hanson, of Austin; and the many friends that supported Kerry through the years. He was preceded in death by his mother, LaDonna Petersen; grandmother, Lafaye Valker; and grandparents: P. Miller and Anna Petersen.