Reverend Timothy “Kirk” Petterson, 68, died peacefully with family by his bedside on March 8, 2019. He was born November 1, 1950 in Wichita, Kansas, the son of Doctors Perry and O’Ruth Petterson. He grew up with two brothers and one sister. They spent many summers building forts and tubing in the river by their summer “Wagon Wheel” cabin.  

Kirk is survived by his devoted wife of 46 years, LeAnn; his brothers Mike (Marilyn), Dennis (Pat), his sister Kathy; his three children, Joanna Kenton (Damon), Sarah Smith (Eric), Carl Petterson (Kate), six grandchildren (Cassie, Sophia, Bianca, Jett, Lucy, Lily), and one great-grandchild (Addison).

Kirk was actively involved in his children’s lives and the lives of their friends. He served as an Awana leader, cub scout master, baseball coach, track coach, and canasta master. Kirk could be counted on to volunteer as the “go-to” guy for wearing a costume and bringing joy to several school-sponsored events.

Kirk left Kansas, but Kansas never left Kirk. An avid Kansas University basketball fan, he typically wore KU-inspired leisure wear. Even in the hospital he rooted for the Jayhawks. Kirk was also known for his pig collection, gardening, carpentry, and all things BARBEQUE. His was a true gift of hospitality, which he learned from his Petterson family, and passed along to his children.

Born on All Saint’s Day, and with a name that means “honoring God,” Kirk was destined to fulfill his role as a man of prayer.  He served as the president of the Wisconsin College of Prayer, pastored the Lake Park Alliance Church in Shell Lake, WI. for 10 years, and served as the assistant pastor at the Chetek Alliance Church. Kirk also ministered as a chaplain at the Luther Mayo Hospital in Eau Claire, WI.  On behalf of his community, he organized the Chetek Area Prayer Initiative, and spent countless hours in prayer at the Chetek House of Prayer, community prayer events, and at Northside Christian Fellowship. Kirk also prayed biweekly at The Well International, seeking to promote the Gospel, and enhance English language skills among several immigrants from Somalia. For over 20 years, Kirk participated in the annual community Vacation Bible School. Twice a week Kirk met with local community pastors and mentored others across a breakfast served at the various local cafes. Kirk left his earthly home to take residence in his eternal home. As Dorothy from Kansas would say, “There’s no place like home.”

The funeral will be held at the Northside Christian Fellowship Church on Friday morning, March 15th. Visitation from 8:00-9:00 A.M. The service will begin at 9:00 A.M. A lunch will be served following the service.  Kirk will be laid to rest at Lakewood Cemetery in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

MEMORIALS may be sent to: The College of Prayer

If sending a check, write Petterson Memorial in the memo. Or you may give online and for “special instructions” put Petterson Memorial. www.collegeofprayer.org/give

The Burnham-Ours-Kolstad Family Funeral Home has been entrusted with the final arrangements.

Last Update: Mar 11, 2019 10:12 am CDT