Kathleen May Runyan Peterson

KATHLEEN MAY RUNYAN PETERSON Kathleen May Runyan Peterson, beloved wife, mother, sister, grandmother, aunt, and friend passed away and returned to the welcoming arms of her Heavenly Father November 12, 2016 surrounded by her loving family. Kathy or "Grammy" as she was affectionately known by her grandchildren was born October 21, 1945. She is the daughter of Robert Seymour and Elizabeth May Swan Runyan and was later adopted by Carl Benjamin Runyan. Her brothers include, Jerry Seymour, Robert Seymour Jr., Jerry Runyan, David Runyan, Donald Runyan, and Mike Runyan. Her beloved sister, Bonnie (Davis) was her best friend, and many people thought they were twins. The family grew up in Arvada, Colorado but later moved to Utah where Kathy graduated from Mount Olympus High School. Kathy was blessed with many talents. She played violin in orchestra, was an accomplished painter and artist, danced, sang, swam, made porcelain dolls, and sewed clothing and costumes. She was an avid horsewoman and barrel racer as well. It was at a rodeo where she would meet her handsome cowboy, the love of her life, Rodney A. Peterson. They were married in the Salt Lake Temple on February 12, 1965. With this union, the couple would eventually welcome 10 children to the family. Grammy was an amazing mother/homemaker, helping each and every child feel loved, supported and important. She supported her children in all their varied activities and interests and encouraged each one to find their own passions and chase their own dreams. She also enjoyed teaching swim lessons and driving school bus. The children loved being around her as well and clambered to be near her and not leave. Kathy was also involved in various callings associated with her membership in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Kathy was involved in a serious accident in 1996, the affects of which, would plague her the rest of her life; but Kathy never lost her sense of humor. She had a quick wit and would use it to make people feel comfortable and at ease around her. She has a strong and determined spirit, and a "no quit" attitude that helped her get through some tough and challenging times. She was an inspiration to all those around her with her positive attitude and radiant smile. She was always sincerely grateful and so appreciative of everyone's help and kindness. Kathy was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Jerry Seymour, Dave Runyan; nephew, David Jr.; and infant granddaughter, Kacia Peterson. She is survived by her husband, Rod; and children, Dale (April) Peterson; Rex (Victoria) Peterson; Rhonda (Tack) Bagley; Chad (Rachel) Peterson; Bryce (Heather) Peterson; Kerri (Steve) Matteson; Lynn (Amber) Peterson; Kelly (Justin) Evans; Darcy (James) Parker; and Brooke(Mike) Zarconi. Kathy leaves behind 31 grandchildren and 1 great grandchild. Funeral services will be held Monday, November 21, at 2:00 p.m. A viewing will be held prior to the funeral from 12:00 to 2:00. All services will be held at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints located at 1700 East Empire Street in Cortez, Colorado. She will be laid to rest on Tuesday November 22 at approximately 2:00 p.m., pending arrival to the Koosharem Cemetery, Koosharem, Utah. The family wishes to express their gratitude to the many caregivers, doctors, nurses, aids, hospital employees and all others that have helped Kathy along this journey.