Michael “Mack” Peterson, 84, of Shawnee, KS, passed peacefully on April 21st, 2024. He was born on June 8th, 1939, in Estherville, IA to Helen and Mack Peterson. He eloped and married his love, Arliss Lorraine Bebo, in December of 1958.
He attended a local junior college and later graduated from Mankato State University. Throughout his life, he was a teacher, coach, entrepreneur, and advocate. He moved to Shawnee with his wife where they founded Heartland Seating, Inc., a spectator seating company that sells to schools and municipalities. The innovative Hide-a-Bench seating system was created and patented by Mike and is still manufactured today.
Mike was adventurous and enjoyed discovering new things. Mike visited all 50 states, traveled to each US National Park, and explored Europe on multiple occasions. Photography, music, dance, poetry, and cheering on the Chiefs were among his favorite things. He would spend hours making delicious sweets (Peanut Brittle, Caramel Corn and Bourbon Balls), grilling and cooking wonderful meals like Red Beans & Rice or his special Buffalo Chicken Wings for friends and family.
Mike was a family-oriented man who valued time with his loved ones. He is survived by his children, Becky, Brad and wife Kathy, Craig, and Jennifer Peterson; plus, four grandchildren, Andrew, Matthew, Jane, and Kyle.
Please join us in celebrating his life on Monday, May 20th, at 10:30 AM at Porter Funeral Home located in Lenexa, KS. In lieu of flowers, donations to Golden Scoop are appreciated.
