Virgil John Peterson, 81, born October 21, 1944, in Mankato, Minnesota, passed away on September 25, 2026. Virgil was a man of deep faith with a big heart, a hearty laugh, and a joyful spirit. He loved people, loved to make them smile, and perhaps more than anything, loved to sing.

Music was simply part of life. He sang around the house, at church, at family gatherings, and nearly anywhere else the opportunity presented itself. He came from a musical family, holidays and celebrations were often filled with singing and instruments. Virgil played a variety of instruments, but those who knew him best will especially remember his voice.

His faith guided much of his life. Virgil spent many years in ministry, serving churches and communities in Michigan, Missouri, Wisconsin and Minnesota. It was at the Traverse City Church of Christ in Michigan that he met Nancy, the love of his life. They married on July 8, 1972, and in 1982 welcomed their daughter, Amy, whom they adopted from Taiwan.

In 1983, Virgil built the family's home in North Mankato, where they remained. Their cul-de-sac became something of a family neighborhood, with Virgil's mother, siblings, and their families living on the same street or just across the ravine. It was a fitting home for someone who held family so close.

Virgil served in the United States Army and later attended Mankato State University and Central Christian College. Over the years, he worked in ministry, radio broadcasting and management, agricultural sales, substitute teaching, and for nearly a decade as Assistant Circulation Manager at the Free Press in Mankato.

Virgil liked to stay busy and active. Over the years, he enjoyed gardening, biking, golfing, running, recreational baseball, watching the MN Twins, and of course music. He also appreciated life's simple pleasures. Coffee with two creams was a necessity, and he was unlikely to turn down a Salted Nut Roll.

Virgil had a big heart and a jolly sense of humor, and his laugh was hard to miss. He loved making people laugh, helping others when he could, and spending time with the people he loved. He adored Nancy and Amy, and his family will deeply miss his singing, his stories, his jokes, and that unmistakable laugh.

Virgil is survived by his beloved wife, Nancy Peterson; daughter Amy Kresser and her husband, Jason; grand kitties Mildred and Banjo; brothers Robert "Bob" Peterson and his wife, Dianne, and Marlin Peterson and his wife, Jeanne; sister-in-law Bev Peterson; and many beloved nieces, nephews, grandnieces, grandnephews, and extended family members.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Helmer and Ruth "Violet" Peterson; sister Mary Pringle and her husband, Dick; and brothers Helmer "Pete" Peterson and Bert Peterson.

Virgil often ended a conversation or goodbye with two simple words. They seem especially fitting now: "Be Blessed."