EUGENE JAMES PETERSON Nov. 18, 1949 – Sept. 4, 2024
Eugene James Peterson passed away peacefully Sept. 4, 2024, at the age of 74. Born Nov. 18, 1949, to Eugene D. and Marguerite A. Peterson in Evergreen Park, IL, Gene was the eldest of four children—Rick, Marybeth, and Don rounded out the Peterson family.
He is preceded in death by his parents, his brother Rick and his wife Gail McFarlane.
He is survived by his sister Marybeth Brugger, brother Don Peterson (Terri), daughter Larisa Gillis, and grandchildren Secilli Keeler and Alan Keeler, who brought him immense pride and joy.
Gene graduated with honors from Brother Rice High School in Chicago, IL, in 1967. He excelled academically and athletically, earning a BS in Chemistry from St. Procopius College in Lisle, IL, in 1971. During his time there, he was recognized with the President’s Award and named in Who’s Who in American Universities and Colleges. A talented athlete, Gene was a four-year starter in varsity hockey. Gene earned his PhD in Inorganic Chemistry from Arizona State University in Tempe, AZ, in 1976.
Gene’s distinguished career at Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) spanned over four decades. He played a pivotal role in the development of the Lab’s isotope production program and served as a respected leader within the Chemistry Division. His contributions are still felt today, his work and mentorship leaving an indelible mark on the institution. After his retirement in 2018, Gene remained a cherished member of the LANL community,
Beyond his professional achievements, Gene was an avid sports enthusiast and a man of many passions. A skilled golfer with a low handicap, he found joy on the golf course and was equally at home on the ski slopes of Pajarito, Santa Fe, and Taos Ski Valley.
Gene and his beloved wife, Gail, shared a love for adventure, traveling together and experiencing new cultures. They attended iconic events such as the Super Bowl and Rose Bowl, adding unforgettable memories to their shared life. Their mutual love for live music brought them to numerous concerts and shows throughout their years together, moments they cherished deeply.
Gene will be remembered for his warmth, intellect, and unwavering dedication to his family, friends, and colleagues. His legacy lives on through the lives he touched, the scientific advancements he championed, and the love he shared with those closest to him.
In honor of Gene’s life and legacy, the family kindly asks that donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, a cause that was close to his heart. While the family previously held a small, intimate wake in Arizona, those wishing to remember Gene are encouraged to celebrate his memory by reflecting on the values he held dear—dedication to science, love for adventure, and kindness toward others. The family invites anyone who knew Gene to share their memories or tributes, helping to keep his memory alive.