Clarence Arthur Peterson — “Pete” — passed away April 19, 2026 at the age of 92.

He is preceded in death by his wife Omaha Gallon, his father and mother Lawernce and Linna Peterson, his brothers John and Philip Peterson. He is survived by his sister Carole Cahill, nephews Russell (Toni) Peterson of Grants Pass, OR., Thomas (Jacki) Cahill of Fieldbrook and Scott Cahill of Arcata, Philip Peterson of Colorado Springs, CO. His nieces, Linda (Eric) Westeren of Redmond OR, Sharon (Allen) of Murray KY. And Susan (Jaret) Rowe of Conroe TX. He is also survived by many great nieces and nephews and one great, great niece.

Pete joined the USAF in 1950. There he met and married Frances Hastings (deceased). After his discharge they made their home in McKinleyville. He was employed at the Simpson Redwood Mill in Korbel and then at several bowling alleys, Eureka Bowl and Rio Dell Bowl. He purchased Harbor Lanes and managed it for many years.

He married Omaha Gallon and they purchased the Ruth Lake Marina. Pete worked for the United Bowling Alliance where he traveled much of the western states promoting junior bowlers.

Pete was an avid horseracing fan and bought several horses. Watching them run was something he enjoyed greatly. He never made much money, but he did love the sport.

His love of travel took him to China, Costa Rica and Italy. As a bowler he saw most of the United States.

Once retired, he relocated to Stigler, Oklahoma. While there he was reunited with his cousin, Larry Green. Larry owned a furniture manufacturing business and found employment for him. He stayed in Stigler until Omaha’s health dictated that they live closer to health care. This move brought him nearer to his brother Phil in Rogers AR. There he enjoyed his stint as an event/security person for the University of Arkansas sports and events.

After losing his wife Omaha, he wandered awhile, staying with Jill and Phil Gray in Florida and Susan Rowe and Russell Peterson getting to know and love his great nieces and nephews.

He eventually came back to Eureka. Here he enjoyed playing golf with his friend Ken Stoddard and having coffee with “the guys” at Adel’s.

He shared a special friendship with the late Craig Perroni and even kept up with their 5 PM cocktails by phone ritual.

There will be a celebration of life at Harbor Lanes on July 3, 2026, from 1-3 PM.

The family would like to thank Eureka VA for keeping him going. His nephew Scott Cahill for his care of him these last 3 months. And to all of you who were part of his life.

Rest in peace, Pete.

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The obituary above was submitted on behalf of Pete Peterson’s family. The Lost Coast Outpost runs obituaries of Humboldt County residents at no charge. See guidelines here. Email news@lostcoastoutpost.com.