Elaine Whear Peterson passed away peacefully at her Bountiful, Utah, home on the morning of Sept. 14, 2021. Elaine was born in Salt Lake City on Nov. 6, 1948, to parents Keith and Doris Whear. She was raised in Tooele, Utah, and maintained a strong affinity toward her hometown throughout her life.
Elaine attended Tooele High School where she swam and was a proud Buffalo. After completing high school she was honored to attend Brigham Young University where she obtained a bachelor’s degree. Elaine was a lifelong Cougar fan and loved to cheer on her team during football season.
After completing college she began working for the United States Department of Veterans Affairs office in Salt Lake City where she met her future husband John Peterson. John and Elaine were married May 19, 1974, and subsequently sealed in the Salt Lake Temple on Feb. 2, 1983.
John and Elaine raised four children: Kara, Matthew, Jessica, and Melissa. Elaine was a dedicated and loving mother. She lived for her children and made many difficult sacrifices to give them a privileged life.
After the children had all completed high school, John and Elaine moved to Louisville, Kentucky. Elaine loved being a Southerner and experiencing a new culture.
After 28 years of service Elaine retired from the VA and enjoyed spending her retirement years with her family. Elaine was a doting grandmother who spoiled her 12 grandchildren who affectionately refer to her as “Grandma Lainey.”
Elaine is survived by her children Kara (Kyle), Matthew (Sara), Jessica (Johnny), and Melissa (James); brother Jim (Pat); sister Sharon (Terry); and her 12 adoring grandchildren.
Elaine was preceded in death by her beloved parents Keith and Doris Whear, husband John Peterson, and brother Bill Whear.
A viewing and funeral service will be held Friday, Sept. 17, at Tate Mortuary in Tooele, Utah. Viewing will begin at 9:30 a.m., followed by an 11 a.m. funeral service. Interment will be held at the Tooele City cemetery.