Irving Emmanuel Peterson

Irving Emmanuel Peterson was born to Alfred and Hulda Peterson in Groveland, Florida on December 20, 1929. On March 23, 1930, he received the washing of new birth in the waters of Holy Baptism, and on November 28, 1943, he confessed his baptismal faith in the rite of Confirmation.

Irving grew up working hard among the Swedish Lutheran farmers of Groveland, Florida. He served our nation during the Korean conflict as a cook in the Army; after the war, he began his career in the tropical foliage industry of Central Florida. Irving was joined in Holy Matrimony to Jean Moberg on June 20, 1958. Their union was blessed with three sons, Roger, Duane, and Gary. He, along with his sons Roger and Duane, built a true family business. Peterson and Sons Nursery wholesaled dish gardens to over 100 florist shops throughout Central Florida. He retired in 1994 and he and Jean enjoyed their retirement years which were primarily spent in their beloved North Carolina and North Georgia mountains. Irving enjoyed being with his family, fishing, woodworking, and a “good coffee break”. He also took pleasure in recounting the history and stories of the Swedes who lived in “Old Central Florida”.

God blessed Irving’s life with many special people. He was especially thank for his son’s Christian wives, Gina, Deborah, and Cindy; his grandchildren, Phillip, Sophia, and Dylan; his father and mother-in-law, the Rev. Carl and Daphne Moberg; his brother and sister-in-law, Allan and Carol Anne Moberg; his nephew, Mark Moberg; his niece and godchild, Stephanie Williams and all their families.

On January 26, 2023, the Lord took Irving to his eternal, Heavenly home. He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Jean, his sons and their families and other loving relatives.

Irving’s family, most of all, give thanks for his earthly life and remembers him fondly as a faithful Christian husband and father.