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As received from the Erickson Crowley Peterson Funeral Home:
Arbutus Peterson, 89, of Phoenix, Michigan passed away on August 25th, 2023, after a lengthy illness.
She graduated from Calumet High School in 1951. Arbutus owned and operated the Phoenix General Store from 1973 until the time of her death. She selflessly devoted her life to her family and her customers. Her work ethic was unmatched. She also served as Houghton Township Treasurer for 20+ years.
She is preceded in death by her parents William and Beatrice (Hoffenbecker) Bykkonen, her husband Lyle Peterson, brother Bill Bykkonen, and sisters Darlene Rastello and Betty Marquardt. Arbutus was the oldest of 8 siblings. She is also predeceased by her stepchildren Rhonda Lovett and Kevin Peterson.
Arbutus is survived by her sons Scot (Merry Jo Miller) Peterson, Lyle (Lynn) Peterson, Steve (Jo) Peterson, daughter Susan Gherna (and devoted son-in-law Kevin Gherna), 7 grandchildren, numerous great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. She is also survived by siblings Dennis (Nancy), Robert Bykkonen, Ron Bykkonen, and Shelby (Rodger) Riddell. Arbutus is also survived by her little angel Cookie, her beloved pet cat. Extended family must include all the devoted customers who became family.
A public visitation will be held for Arbutus on Wednesday, August 30th, 2023, from 1:00-4:00 pm at the Erickson-Crowley-Peterson Funeral Home in Calumet, Michigan. A private family burial will be held in the Eagle River Cemetery.
Online condolences may be left for the family at www.ericksoncrowleypeterson.com
