Chris P. Peterson

PETERSON, Christopher Patrick, 75, died on February 10, 2023 in St. Paul, MN after suffering a stroke. Chris is preceded in death by his parents, Marguerite (nee MacAuley) and Irwin Peterson. He is survived by his partner of 25.5 years, Lynne Gallagher, son Joseph (Crystal), two stepchildren Shannon and Christopher, brother John (Pamela Burkley), sister Dolly (Tom O’Rourke), four grandchildren, three nieces, and two nephews. Chris was born January 27, 1948 in Escanaba, MI. The family eventually moved to St. Paul, MN where Chris graduated from Cretin HS in 1966. He earned his BA with Honors at the U of MN in 1970 followed by a JD from William Mitchell College of Law in 1975. Chris’ professional career was defined by service, and in particular, service to at risk youth and juvenile delinquents with alcoholism and drug dependency. He held numerous positions within the State Prison System, Ramsey and Washington Counties. He also developed training curricula for juvenile and family court judges, probation officers, social workers and court administrators in all areas relating to delinquency, child abuse and neglect. He directed the Chemical Dependency Ctr of the St. Croix Valley Memorial Hospital and he was a practicing attorney in both Federal and Immigration Court and State Court. He also served as an Attorney to the MN Lawyers Intl Human Rights Committee. Later in life, Chris earned a teaching certificate and taught middle school math for 12 years in the Los Angeles, CA public school system. In retirement, Chris tutored math students in local middle and high schools. Chris was a 46 year member of AA. He was a frequent speaker in AA and Al-Anon and sponsor of many men. Chris possessed a “larger than life” personality and was known for his sense of humor, love of family, sports, canines, bridge and a juicy burger. He will be deeply missed by all those whose lives he impacted. A Memorial Service will be held Sunday, April 16 at Willwerscheid Funeral Home, 1167 Grand Avenue, St. Paul, MN 55105, Noon - 3 pm. Prayer service begins at 2 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Retreat in Wayzata https://securepayment.link/theretreat/one-time-credit-card-donation/