Teresa “Terry” Dianne Peterson, age 59, of Sparta, WI, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, July 11, 2026, at Mayo Clinic Health System in La Crosse, WI.
Terry was born on February 7, 1967, in Greenwood, Mississippi, to Sheila Albritton.
On December 8, 1991, she married the love of her life, Donald Peterson. Throughout Don’s military career, they made homes in several states before settling in Sparta in 2003. No matter where his military career took them, home was always wherever they were together.
For a short time, Terry worked as a medical assistant, but the role she treasured most was staying home to be a mother and “Nanny” to her daughters and granddaughters.
Terry enjoyed spending time outdoors, especially camping and fishing with her family and friends.
Terry is survived by her husband, Donald Peterson; her daughters, Samantha Harry, Jessica Mullin, and Christina Moore; grandchildren, Alaya, Rylee, Nelly, Brittany, Austin, and Brooklyn; brother, Richard “Ricky” Dotts; in-laws, Lowell and Barbara Peterson; her dear friends, Chad and Tammy Brueggeman; as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and friends.
She was preceded in death by her mom, Sheila Loden; stepfather, William Loden; and brother, Anthony Micheal Dotts.
A Celebration of Terry’s Life will be held on Saturday, July 25, 2026, at the Peterson Home, 5588 Catbird Road, Sparta, beginning at 1 p.m. Family and friends are invited to attend and share their memories of Terry. The Torkelson Funeral Home in Sparta is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be offered at www.torkelsonfuneralhome.com.
Torkelson Funeral Home
