Evelyn Marie Petersen

Evelyn Marie Petersen of Cozad peacefully passed away on Monday, April 13, 2026 at Meadowlark Pointe Assisted Living at the age of 96. Evelyn was born February 21, 1930 at Wood River, Nebraska to William and Lena (Bohnart) Callahan. She graduated from Shelton High School with the class of 1948.

Evelyn was a devoted wife and mother. She married Gene Petersen on November 24, 1952, at the Catholic Church in Minden, Nebraska. Together, they built a loving family and were blessed with five children: Bobbi, Sherri, Nancy, Pam, and Chris. Evelyn dedicated much of her life to raising her children, working hard as a stay-at-home mother, always putting their needs and happiness first.

Evelyn loved having family around and enjoyed gathering with friends. She was known for being an amazing baker, especially for her chocolate chip cookies, raisin-filled cookies, and cinnamon rolls that many remember fondly. These treats were a symbol of her kindness and care, enjoyed by those around her.

Evelyn had many interests and hobbies that brought joy to her life. She loved playing cards and being part of women's card groups, enjoyed golfing, and made beautiful afghan blankets for her grandchildren, showing her creative and thoughtful nature.

Her commitment to her faith was a cornerstone of her life. Evelyn was a faithful and devoted member of Christ the King Catholic Church. She served as a church trustee, participated on the church council, and was active in the altar society. Her dedication extended beyond her church; she volunteered at the Robert Henri Museum and with the Red Cross, always eager to lend a hand to her community.

Evelyn also shared her leadership skills within her local community. She served as the president of the ladies golf association at the Cozad Country Club and contributed to the Cozad City Council planning committee, helping to shape the place she called home.

Evelyn was preceded in death by her parents; husband Gene ‘Pete’ Petersen; grandchild, Caleb James DeBoer; sister Joan Rosinski; brothers, Jerome, Floyd, Frank, Bernard, Melvin and Ray; sisters in law, Betty, Shirley and Ruth.

Survivors include her children, Bobbi (Dennis) Sandrock, Sherri (Mike) Portenier, Nancy Marshall, Pam (Eric) Standage and Chris (Sheila) Petersen; several grandchildren, great grandchildren and great great grandchildren; sisters in law, Patty Callahan, Rose Callahan and Diane Callahan; and numerous nieces, nephews and extended family.

Memorials are suggested to Meadowlark Pointe Assisted Living. A Mass of Christian Burial will be Tuesday, April 21, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. at Christ the King Catholic Church. Burial will follow at Cozad Cemetery. Visitation with family present will be Monday from 5 to 7 p.m. with Rosary recited at 7 p.m. at Christ the King Catholic Church. Berryman Funeral Home assisted the family with arrangements.