1922-2010

J. Robert Peterson was born in Davenport, IA, in 1922 and graduated from St. Ambrose College. He moved to Landrum, SC, in 1990.

Mr. Peterson was a flight instructor for the Army Air Corps during World War II. He remained an avid pilot and flight enthusiast until his death.

Mr. Peterson began his business career in the paper industry in 1946. He founded and served as the first president of the Lake Erie Paper Company in Cleveland, OH, and eventually became the president and CEO of the Petrequin Paper Company. Upon retirement he moved to Nevis, West Indies, where he was economic advisor to the minister of Nevisian affairs.

Mr. Peterson was active in civic activities including Rotary and Lions Clubs. He was a respected artist, specializing in one-of-a-kind dolls and small bas-relief sculptures in the Mayan motif. An ardent student of the Maya, he was well known for his lectures on Maya art, architecture, and history. He traveled extensively throughout Mexico and South America.

Mr. Peterson is survived by his wife, Sandra T. Peterson, his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.

Memorial gifts may be made to Hospice of the Carolina Foothills Hospice of the Carolina Foothills, 130 Forest Glen Dr., Columbus, NC 28722.