Doris Joann Peterson

Doris Joann (Dakken) Peterson 90, of Mankato MN, passed away on October 17, 2025 at the Pillars of Mankato.

She was born to Bud and Naomi Dakken on her grandparents’ farm near Lake Mills, Iowa on June 21, 1935.

Doris grew up in Lake Mills, Iowa. After she graduated from high school, she attended the University of Northern Iowa in Cedar Falls and received her teaching degree.

In 1958, she married her high school sweetheart, Richard W. Peterson, in Tokyo, Japan. After Richard’s tour of duty, they moved to the Mankato area to start their family. They were blessed with four children, Lori, Scott, Susan and Thomas.

Teaching was her passion. She loved her 35 years with the Mankato Area Public Schools and considered Jefferson Elementary her second home. As she was nearing retirement, she earned her master’s degree at Minnesota State University at Mankato at the age of 60. Upon retirement, she traveled, made numerous memories with her grandchildren, and spent many moments sitting on the dock watching the loons at her cabin in Crosslake.

Family brought Doris so much joy. She leaves behind her children, Lori (Archie) Benike, Scott (Dolly) Peterson, Susan (Greg) Spellacy, and Thomas Peterson. Her grandchildren, Joseph (Lauren) Benike, Ethan Benike, Aaron and Joshua Spellacy, Zander, Riley and Julian Peterson; her great grandchildren, Juniper and Basil Benike; her brothers, David and Dana Dakken and their families; along with several beloved cousins.

The family of Doris would like to extend their deepest gratitude for the compassionate care she received at The Pillars of Mankato and Moments Hospice. We also offer a heartfelt thanks to Erin Johnson and Alaina Young for being a constant source of strength and support during this journey.

A Celebration of Doris will be held on Tuesday October 28, 2025 from 4:00-7:00 at Mankato Mortuary 1001 N. Riverfront Drive, Mankato, MN 56001.

In lieu of flowers, the family would be grateful for contributions to Moments Hospice and The Greater Mankato Alzheimer's Association.