Steven Peterson

Steve was born on July 26, 1961, in Los Angeles, California, to Clifford “Bruce” and Karol (Lautner) Peterson. He spent his early childhood in Los Angeles before the family relocated permanently to Marquette during his elementary school years. The Peterson family managed Deertrack Village, and lived in the majestic Frank Lloyd Wright property–the only Wright residence in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Steve’s grandfather, John Lautner, was a world-renowned architect, and Steve’s father, Bruce, took on the responsibility of remodeling, refurbishing, and maintaining the year-round cabins.

Growing up, Steve developed a deep appreciation for architecture, inspired by his family’s rich legacy. Some of his fondest memories were visiting properties designed by his grandfather, John Lautner, including riding his tricycle around the iconic Silver Top residence in Los Angeles. These experiences fostered a lifelong admiration for creative and functional spaces.

Despite his family’s deep roots in architecture and carpentry, Steve initially charted a different path. A graduate of Marquette Senior High School, he was a star basketball player known for his dexterity and jumping abilities. After high school, Steve explored life in Florida and Arizona before eventually moving to California to live with his late uncle, Mike Lautner. With little prior experience, Steve learned the carpentry trade on the job, honing his skills over time and becoming a talented craftsman–something his father, a sixth-generation carpenter, was very proud of.

In 1983, Steve met Karen Hill, and by 1985 they began dating. Three years later, they started their family in San Jose, California. Working on everything from charming Victorians to million-dollar properties, he became highly skilled in renovating and remodeling homes. For years, Steve traveled between Marquette and California, and in 2015, following his mother’s passing, he and Karen assumed management of Deertrack Village.

In his leisure time, Steve enjoyed classic cars, classic rock music, and cheering for his beloved 49ers and Packers. He loved cruising around Deertrack Village in VW, Beetles, singing along to The Beatles, Johnny Cash, and Elvis Presley, and bicycling around Marquette with Karen.

Steve is survived by the love of his life, Karen Hill-Peterson; his daughters, KareyAnne (Robert James) Hill-Peterson and Kristen Hill-Peterson; his granddaughter, Sophia Kristen James; and numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Karol Lautner Peterson and Bruce Peterson; his brother, Benjamin Peterson; and his faithful canine companions, Yogi and George.

A gathering of family and friends will be held at Fassbender Swanson Hansen Funeral and Cremation Services on Sunday, February 16, from 1:00 pm until 2:00 pm, and afterwards, with a time of sharing memories and tributes beginning at 2:00 pm. Pastor Chad Mager will officiate.

Steven’s service will be livestreamed at https://my.gather.app/remember/steven-b-peterson

Condolences may be expressed online at fassbenderswansonhansen.com.