LaLonnie Rae Peterson, 62

LaLonnie Rae Peterson, 62, passed away Sunday, May 27, 2007, in Seattle. She was born on May 31, 1944, in Kalispell, to Edgar and Phyllis Peterson.

Lonnie grew up with her sister Terrilyn at the Peterson Motel in Kalispell. Her mother was a beautician and her father was a lumber grader, in addition to running the motel. Because of her physical limitations, Lonnie did not have any formal schooling. Despite her limitations she was very independent and had a strong mind and will of her own.

When her parents retired they moved with Lonnie to Echo Lake. Years later, she moved to Seattle to live with her sister, Terrilyn, when her parents were no longer able to care for her. Terrilyn continued to care for Lonnie until she died in November 2005.

Terrilyn's husband, Steve, Lonnie's niece, Holly Cayetano, and nephew, Allan Timlick, took over her care.

Lonnie was feisty and determined; affectionate and a tease with a contagious laugh that seemed to bubble up from deep within. She loved sunglasses, stuffed animals, hats, balloons, carrying bottles of pop and looking at photo albums.

She was dearly loved and will be greatly missed.

Lonnie is survived by her nephew, Allan Timlick, of Seattle and nieces, Vicki Gaines of Bigfork, Jill Curtis of Kalispell, and Holly Cayetano of Kent, Wash.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Edgar and Phyllis Peterson; and sister, Terrilyn Sweet.

Graveside services for Lonnie will be held at 2 pm on Saturday, June 2, at C.E. Conrad Memorial Cemetery. There will be no visitation.

Johnson Mortuary and Crematory is caring for Lonnie's family.

You are invited to go to www.johnsonmortuary.com to offer condolences and sign Lonnie's guest book.