Robert Petersen April 8, 1934 - September 15, 2018

Robert Petersen died peacefully at home with his two daughters, caregivers and his dog Bella close by. Born in Nebraska on April 9, 1934, Bob was the only son of Hazel and Otto Petersen. He graduated from the University of Oregon Dental School in June of 1959, and it was there that he met Jerry Petersen. They were married on June 22, 1957 and enjoyed 59 years of marriage.

After two years of service to our country in the Air Force, the Petersens moved to Portland, where Bob began practicing dentistry and where the young couple would raise three children. Family camping trips to the Metolius led to the purchase of a small cabin on the river in 1975 that became a year-round hub of fun for family and friends. Fishing, floating and hiking in the summer, then skiing and fixing frozen pipes in the winter led to a deep love of Central Oregon for the entire family.

In 1980, Bob sold his dental practice and they made the move permanently to Central Oregon. After a few years in the tiny cabin on the river they purchased a home in Camp Sherman, and opened the Metolius Inn Bed & Breakfast, where they enjoyed hosting guests from across the country and beyond. In 1982 the couple purchased the Paper Place in Sisters, and Bob settled happily into his new role as the quiet one behind the scenes, and for the next 32 years he loved being a part of the Sisters business community.

Bob and Jerry loved the Southwest desert, Native American art and artifacts, and they enjoyed many visits to Arizona over the years. Bob loved his quiet time reading, walking the dog, and complaining about the pollen! He lost Jerry in May of 2017, and the last year was a difficult one for him. The family is grateful to the local caregivers and hospice staff who showered Bob with kindness and affection in his final months; allowing him to remain at home.

Robert is survived by his three children: Erick Petersen, Kristen Newton, and Kara Petersen; six grandchildren: Jensen, Taya, Mason, Logan, Lydia, and Joshua; and two great-grandchildren.

A private celebration of life was held on the banks of the Metolius River. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations and other offers of support and appreciation be made to our local hospice organizations and the Central Oregon Humane Society in recognition of the remarkable work these organizations do for the people and pets of Central Oregon, and the beautiful community of Sisters that Robert called home.