Colleen Peterson

Colleen L. Peterson, a devoted mother, grandmother, sister, and faithful disciple of Jesus Christ, returned to her Heavenly Father on February 28, 2026, at the age of 79. She was born on June 17, 1946, in Spokane, Washington, to Gordon and Grace Zimmer, who raised her in a home filled with love, hard work, and a deep commitment to the gospel.
A lifelong member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Colleen lived her testimony through quiet service, compassion, and a steadfast trust in the Lord. She found joy in ministering to others, strengthening her family, and living in a way that reflected her deep belief in eternal families and the Savior's promise of peace.
Colleen expressed her love through the things she created and cared for. She was happiest in her kitchen, preparing meals that brought her family together; in her garden, tending to the flowers and vegetables that reflected her patient, gentle spirit; and at the family lake cabin, where she found peace in nature and cherished time with those she loved. 
Colleen is survived by her children, Katie Sonnemaker-Denton and Richard (Keesha) Sonnemaker; her treasured grandchildren Katelin, Emma, Oliver, Dallin, Emmett, and Eleanor; and her brother Ray (Linda) Zimmer and their seven children of Utah. Her family was her greatest blessing, and she nurtured each relationship with patience, warmth, and unwavering love.
Colleen is reunited in heaven with her first husband, Jerry (1994), her second husband, Jim (2025), and many dear family members and friends who preceded her in death. Her family takes comfort in the eternal perspective she held so dearly-knowing that through sacred covenants and the Savior's redeeming love, families are forever and this separation is only temporary, and love continues beyond the veil. 
A funeral service will be held at 11am on Saturday, March 14 at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 2112 W Francis Ave, in Spokane. A Graveside service will be at 2:00pm on Tuesday, March 17 at Fairmount Memorial Park.

If you are unable to make it to the service it will be live streamed at 11am PST on the day of the service - stay tuned for the link