Samuel Christian Peterson

Samuel Christian Peterson, 26, of Hermantown, MN, died on July 11, 2024, at home, surrounded by his loving parents and sisters. Sam lived so bravely with brain cancer for over five years.

Sam was born September 7, 1997 in Dayton, OH. He grew up in Appleton, WI and moved to Hermantown in 2007. Sam graduated from Hermantown High School in 2016. He was a student at Lake Superior College, and, persevering through his illness, graduated with his Associate’s degree in 2024. 

Sam was joking before he could talk. He would tell jokes to himself in his own made-up, baby language. Growing up, he was constantly making his family laugh with his dance moves, stories, and antics. He loved music - everyone said there wasn’t a bad song on his incredibly eclectic playlist. Sam also loved movies, and, from a young age, could quote them from memory till the cows came home. He and his dad had a well-established tradition of going to the movies together. Sam loved board games, and was the one to beat at the Peterson home game nights. He and his mom enjoyed trying to best each other at party games.

Sam loved performance cars, and his favorite show of all time was Top Gear, especially the adventures. And he loved his Tacoma, which he proudly drove less than a month after two brain surgeries. Whenever another Tacoma passed on the road, Sam would whisper “Tacoma” in this distinctive, mischievous way that elicited an automatic smile from everyone in the car.

Sam loved all animals, and every animal he ever met loved him. Most of all, Sam loved his best friend, golden retriever Sven. Sam and Sven were both rays of sunshine in this world, and we know their spirits are reunited now. 

Sam was endearingly called just “Uncle” by Aubrey, Graham, and Macy. He was an incredible presence in their lives, with a special patience and playfulness, and he loved them so much. 

Sam was wise beyond his years, even before his diagnosis. He was so selfless and kind, always caring about others above himself. Throughout his illness, he never complained, and always worried more about other cancer patients and his family.

Thank you to all the members of his care team, from his very first surgeons, dedicated nurses, Dr. Mahajan, Dr. Sener, and all the other countless healthcare professionals who took care of Sam. There is no doubt in our minds that Sam received the best care there was to offer.

Sam was preceded in death by brothers, Andy and Jeff; Nana and Grandpa McNutt; Uncles, Scott and Pat; Aunt Moosie; cousin, Robin, and many beloved pets, including his best friend, Sven. 

Sam is survived by his parents, Kelly and Dan Peterson; sisters, Rachel (RobBob Hogan) Peterson, Molly (Mike) Robertson; nieces Aubrey and Macy; nephew, Graham; Grandma and Papa Peterson, many aunts, uncles, cousins, his Cold Fusion family, and friends, including his dear friend, Taylor.

A Service will be held on July 26 at Peace United Church of Christ, located at 1111 N 11th Ave E in Duluth, MN. Visitation at 10am, Celebration of Life at 11am, with lunch to follow. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in memory of Sam to Oligo Nation, the only organization doing research on the kind of cancer Sam had.

Sam lived bravely, leading with kindness, patience, generosity, humor, sincerity, and love. Pass it on in his honor.