Rodney H. Peterson, age 87 of Cloquet went home to be with the Lord Jesus on Wednesday, August 4, 2021. Rod was raised in Mahtowa on the family farm and attended Park Lake School. He graduated in 1952 from Barnum High School where he met the love of his life, Esther. Rod worked at Wood Conversion/Conwed/USG for 46 years. Rod was a member of Salem Lutheran Church his entire life and served as caretaker of Mt Salem Cemetery for many years. Rod will be best remembered as a man of faith who often spoke and showed his love for his children, their spouses and his grandchildren. He also took pride in attending all his family members events and activities. Rod was most known for his ability to strike up a conversation with anyone and his sense of humor. In recent years, Rod showed courage in facing challenges with a sense of humor, laughter and a smile staying strong until the end. Rod was preceded in death by his parents, Carl and Nancy; and brothers, Chester, Wilbur, Irvin and Allen. He is survived by his loving wife of 67 years, Esther; daughter, Jayne (Steve) Clark; sons, Jeff (Maxine), Jon (DeAnn), and Jason (Jeni); 14 grandchildren; 10 great grandchildren; and brothers, Roy and Lawrence. Visitation: 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. Sunday, August 8th in Atkins-Northland Funeral Home, 801 14th Street, Cloquet. Visitation will continue from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. Monday, August 9th followed by the funeral service at Salem Lutheran Church in Mahtowa. Burial will be in Mt Salem Cemetery. Memorials are preferred to Mt Salem Cemetery. Arrangements entrusted to Atkins-Northland Funeral Home. To sign the guest book and leave an online tribute, see www.atkinsnorthlandfuneralhome.com.