LA JARA – Alan Wade Peterson, a cherished father, devoted farmer, and a man known for his wisdom, creativity, and thoughtfulness, passed away peacefully on Aug. 27, 2024, in La Jara, Colo. Born on April 27, 1956, in Denver, Colo., Alan's life was one rooted in the principles of hard work, family, and the simple joys of life.
Alan grew up in the scenic surroundings of La Jara, where he was born to Robert Wade and Mildred Eleanor Peterson. Though he was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Roberta Weis, Alan's legacy continues through his sons, Michael Willis and Aaron Wade Peterson, who remain in La Jara, embodying the values he instilled in them.
A lifelong farmer, Alan had an innate connection to the land and a profound respect for the rhythms of nature. His work on the farm was not just a job but a way of life that he deeply loved. Alan's relationship with the earth was a testament to his character — steady, nurturing, and always looking forward to the next harvest.
Beyond the fields, Alan's passions were as diverse as they were engaging. He was an avid motorcyclist, feeling most free with the wind against his face on the open roads of Colorado. His hands, so accustomed to the soil, also found joy in the delicate craft of model radio-controlled airplanes, a hobby that showcased his creative spirit and meticulous attention to detail.
Alan's love for the outdoors extended to the greens of the golf course and the tranquility of camping in nature's embrace. These activities were not just pastimes but also moments where he connected with friends, family, and the world around him in profound ways.
As a father, Alan was full of wisdom and guidance. He was actively involved in his sons' lives, teaching them with a gentle hand and a generous heart. His pride in their achievements was as boundless as the Colorado sky, and he was known to share stories of their successes with a warm, beaming smile.
Alan’s life was a tapestry woven with the love of his family, the respect for his work, and the pursuit of his passions. As the sun sets on his final chapter, we are reminded of the enduring impact of a life well-lived. Alan's memory will be treasured in the hearts of those he leaves behind, and his spirit will continue to inspire us as we look to the fields he cherished and the skies he navigated with his planes.
A graveside service to honor Alan’s life will be held on Monday, Sept. 2, 2024, at 10 a.m. at Sanford Cemetery.
Rogers Family Mortuary is in the care of the arrangements. To leave online condolences, tributes, and words of comfort for Alan’s family, please visit www.RogersFunerals.com.
