Michael Peterson

Michael Douglas Peterson, age 30, a resident of Omaha, Nebraska, suddenly passed away in his home on November 30th, 2023.

Michael was born on February 20th, 1993, in St. Paul, Minnesota, to parents Douglas and Cheryl Peterson. From an early age, Michael displayed an outgoing and curious personality, cultivating a deep love for animals, a passion for exploring new places, and learning. His educational journey led him through Deerwood Elementary, Black Hawk Middle School, and culminated in his graduation from Eagan Senior High School in 2011.

During his high school years, Michael's vibrant spirit shone through as he played the trombone in the school band, contributed to the Eagan drumline, competed on the bowling team, and even experienced the excitement of being part of the homecoming court. His friendships, formed during this period, remained steadfast throughout his life.

After high school, Michael attended Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa, from 2011 to 2015. He embraced campus life, serving as a resident assistant in Crawford Hall, excelling as Vice President of Finance for Order of Omega, and contributing to the Student Activities Board. Michael was also a proud member of Sigma Phi Epsilon, where he held the position of philanthropy chair.

Some of Michael's most impactful experiences in college occurred with his mission-guided travel. During his freshman year, he traveled to Uganda, Africa. Michael played a vital role in securing $60,000 in funding from global contacts and various organizations to build a hospital for those in need. Additionally, Michael facilitated the sponsorship of $300,000 in donated medical supplies, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of many. During Michael's Sophomore year, he traveled to Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands. During this trip, he focused on environmental conservation. He helped control invasive vegetation as well as learn and care for endangered animals.

Michael graduated Cum Laude in 2015 with a degree in Actuarial Science and Finance. He then took the opportunity to travel around Europe for fifty days- a trip that he reflected on regularly for the rest of his life. Afterwards, he began his career as an Actuarial Analyst with Lincoln Financial in Omaha, Nebraska. He excelled in his work, and in addition to his expected duties, he led the effort for Lincoln Financial to be a founding partner of SAGAA- the Sexuality and Gender Alliance of Actuaries. Uplifting people of diverse backgrounds in the actuarial field brought him immense joy, pride, and purpose.

Outside of his professional life, Michael shared a home and countless joyful moments with his partner, Hogan Hudgins. Michael and Hogan loved traveling, with recent trips to Chicago, New York City, New England, and Iceland. They also enjoyed time with friends, playing cribbage, and watching Huskers volleyball. Their home was constantly filled with love and laughter, enhanced by the presence of their dog Cashew, and cats Zoey and Cece. For the majority of their time together, Michael and Hogan lived in New Orleans, Louisiana, where they loved exploring the city's food, beverages, and festivals. Twice, Michael hosted friends from across the country to celebrate Mardi Gras, a festival that was nearly as joyous and vibrant as he was. When they decided that they were returning to Omaha in 2023, with great pride, Michael purchased his first home, marking a new chapter in their lives together. Michael enjoyed decorating their new home and loved hosting their friends. Michael and Hogan looked forward to spending many years together in their home.

In April 2023, Michael embraced his role as an uncle with joy, welcoming his niece Julia into the world. He FaceTimed with her almost daily and devoted time to crocheting stuffed animals for her. Plans for a special Christmas gift, a handmade hat and sweater, reflected Michael's caring and creative spirit.

Michael was the heartbeat of any gathering, bringing people to the dance floor and leaving a lasting impression on everyone he met. His infectious energy, generosity, and innate ability to care and love made knowing him a cherished gift.

Michael is preceded in death by his grandparents, Cecil and Joan Malmanger, and Carsten and Emily Peterson. He is survived by his parents, Douglas and Cheryl Peterson, sister Jennifer (Theodore) Spilde, niece Julia Spilde, partner Hogan Hudgins, many beloved friends, and his animals, Cashew, Zoey, and Cece.

A memorial service to celebrate Michael's life will be held on Saturday, December 16th, 2023, at Mueller Memorial Funeral Home. Visitation will be from 11:00 am - 12:00 pm. The memorial service will begin at 12:00 pm, with a reception to follow. (4738 Bald Eagle Ave, White Bear Lake, MN 55110). In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Epilepsy Foundation or The Trevor Project in Michael's memory. Additionally, we plan to lay Michael's ashes to rest at a celebration of life and tree dedication this spring. Details regarding this event will be shared at a later date.

Please share your memories and condolences on Michael's Mueller Memorial website or share photos of Michael on this link. Michael's spirit will forever live on in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him.