Hans J.B. Petersen

Hans J. B. Petersen, age 88, of St. Peter, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, November 11, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

A Celebration of Life will be held at First Lutheran Church in St. Peter, Minnesota on Saturday, December 12. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m., followed by the funeral service at 11:00 a.m. A luncheon will follow at 12:00 p.m.

Hans was born on August 16, 1938, in Rochester, Minnesota. He graduated from Spring Valley High School in 1957 before continuing his education at Luther College in Decorah, Iowa, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration in 1961. He went on to earn a Master's degree in Sports Administration from the University of Northern Colorado in Greeley, Colorado, in 1964, followed by a Master's degree in Counseling from the University of St. Thomas in 1969.

Hans began his career teaching and coaching at Decorah High School, where he spent three years before joining Roseville Schools in the Twin Cities in 1964. Throughout his career, he served as a teacher, counselor, and football coach. In 1986, he was named Athletic Director for the Roseville School District, a position he held until his retirement in 1999.

Hans was preceded in death by his parents, Etlar and Helen Petersen; his brother, David; his brother-in-law, Monte Bluske of Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin; and his sister-in-law, Marcia Maldenado of San Antonio, Texas.

He is survived by his loving wife of 63 years and Luther College sweetheart, Lana; his sons, Brett (Linda) of St. Peter, Minnesota, and Brad (Erin) of Roseville; and his four grandchildren, Tyler (Emma), Ryan, Katie, and Natalie.

The family extends their deepest appreciation to the caring staff at Ecumen Prairie Hill, especially the staff in the memory care unit where Hans spent his final two months.