Patricia M. Peterson

Patricia Marie Peterson, 94, of Galesburg, Illinois, died unexpectedly at 5:52 p.m. Saturday, May 16, 2026 in the Emergency Room at OSF St. Mary Medical Center, Galesburg.

Pat was born June 19, 1931 in Belleville, Illinois, the daughter of Arthur James and Cora Edith (Coffey) McKeogh. She graduated from Belleville Township High School and later married James B. Peterson on December 11, 1954 in Belleville.

Pat is survived by her husband, Jim of Galesburg. She was preceded in death by her parents and one sister, Helen Koch.

After marrying Pat and Jim moved about the United States to further Jim’s career eventually moving abroad to Europe where they remained for many years. Jim traveled extensively for work; Pat often joined the expedition to different countries. They enjoyed golfing in Scotland, skiing in Austria, a safari in Africa, and sunbathing in Trinidad. They eventually moved back to the States, settling in Chicago, where Pat became extensively involved in charity work as well as hosting numerous benefit galas for different charitable organizations. Some of her roles included being Chairman and Vice President for Development of the Hull House Association of Chicago and the United Cerebral Palsy Association of Chicago. She also served on the board of Northwestern memorial Hospital as President of the board of education and research, gastroenterology. She served as member and past president of the women’s board of Shakespeare Globe-Midwest Region, and as vice president of public relations.

Cremation rites have been accorded. No services are planned. Arrangements have been entrusted to Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com.