Eddie (Ed) James Peterson, Jr. of Boulder was called home on Jan. 12, 2026 at the age of 82.
Ed lived an eventful life — a “good ride,” he would say. Born to Edgar and Ann Peterson on Feb. 12, 1943 in Great Falls, he had many passions — hunting, snowmobiles and motorcycles, to name a few. In his early years, if it had a motor, Ed wanted to know how fast it’d go — whether it had two, four or no wheels at all. Similarly, if he saw a peak in the distance, he wanted to see the world from the top.
Ed was a gifted storyteller — and perhaps a bit of an exaggerator — telling long, mostly accurate tales of his life that were generally designed to either teach a lesson or get a laugh. Those who knew him well would always say they loved his stories.
Ed served on forest fire crews in his 20s before joining the Navy during the Vietnam war. After returning from Vietnam, he welcomed a daughter and son into the world. Ed then met Vicki, who would become his wife of over 40 years, and again expanded his family, adding two stepchildren he raised as his own. Ed and Vicki soon settled in Boulder, making lifelong friends and creating for their children a mountain of memories. From church camps to coastal road trips to ATV and motorcycle adventures to camping hunting and shooting, Ed and Vicki made sure their kids had their own stories to tell.
Over the years, Ed wore many professional hats, among them janitorial work, automotive parts sales representative, restaurateur and firearms sales. It was his duty as a father, grandfather and great grandfather, though, that he relished most, imparting his stories and wisdom gained through a well lived life. Ed instilled in his children a boundless passion for the great outdoors and taught them the meaning of honor, the importance of family and the value of true friends.
As Ed’s health waned, he was blessed to have been watched over by many in Boulder and Helena. He was further blessed with many other great friends in the area who enriched his life; he spoke often of the many friendships he forged and cherished.
Ed is survived by his daughter Heather (Spankowski) of Ixonia, Wis.; his son Chad of Spokane, Wa..; his stepson Jeremy (Braughton) of Crouch, Id.; and his stepdaughter Jennifer (Wiseman) of Post Falls, Id.; as well as grandchildren Michael, Sebastian, Dylan, Brooke, and Bryn, and numerous great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife Vicki Rae and his brother Duane.
In accordance with Ed’s wishes, there will be a celebration of life later this year at a date and time to be determined. In lieu of flowers or other memorials, please consider a donation to the Disabled American Veterans (DAV).
