Final Salute

Julene Luverne Peterson was born in Duluth, MN on June 22, 1926 to Edward and Beda Peterson. His family moved to Oregon when he was a young boy. His older brother Glenard, predeceased him. He attended Commerce and Benson High School. Upon graduation, like many other young men of his generation, Julene joined the Navy and proudly served in the Seabees in the 15th Construction Battalion. He was stationed in Okinawa during WWII. Upon his return to the States, he met Luella Mae Lawrence, they wed in June of 1949 and were married for 33 years until her death in 1982. Together they raised 3 boys. He was active in his children’s upbringing and was involved in the Y Indian Guides, all the boys sporting events and weekly church activities. The family purchased a travel trailer and used it often as together they discovered the fun and beauty of camping and fishing in the NW. Julene’s career spanned many years as a Contact Representative for the Bureau of Veteran’s Affairs. In this position, he served Veteran’s across the state bringing benefits to those who were unable to travel to the offices in Portland. In addition, he spent a year in Japan broadening those benefits to vets who remained overseas. The family seized the opportunity to visit Julene while he was Japan and it made for quite an adventure for the boys. He retired from The VA in the early 1990’s. He also clerked at Fred Meyers and served as treasurer for the church for many years. He married Nadine Stengle in 1985. Together they traveled extensively in the comfort of their motorhome and spent several winters “snowbirding” in California and Arizona. They also enjoyed a couple of European adventures and added 3 cruises to their travel log. Julene was a proud Veteran and just last year was fortunate to have been selected to travel to Washington DC to participate in an Honor Flight. Accompanied by his youngest son Randy, the group of 25 WWII Veterans were honored at various Patriotic sites in and around Washington DC. It was a highlight of his life and punctuated the fact that he was a distinguished member of the “Greatest Generation” Julene is survived by his wife Nadine, Sons, Terry (Kathy Vlahos) Timothy (Goretti) and Randall (Carol) Grandchildren, Andrew (Amanda) Kelsey, Matthew (Leah) and Erik. Julene will be remembered for his love and commitment to his family. For the pride he had in his children, his daughters-in-law, and his grandchildren. For his quirky sense of humor and his willingness to help whenever and wherever he could. He will remain forever in our hearts and our memories.