W. R. “Pete” Peterson, 97, of Chattanooga, Tennessee, died on Wednesday, October 2, 2024.
Dr. Peterson was a native of Racine, Wi., and received a bachelor’s degree in 1949 from Carroll College in Waukeska, Wi. and a Ph.D. from the University of Illinois in 1952 where he was a student of Professor Carl Marvel. He served in the U.S. Navy in World War II as a Seaman First Class. Dr. Peterson became an Eagle Scout at the age of 16.
He was a polymer chemist specializing in synthetic latexes. He was co-founder in 1963 of Southeast Polymers which is now back on Polymer Drive. He had been research director of Textile Rubber and Chemical in Dalton, Ga., and research director of United Rubber and Chemical in Baytown, Tx.
He had been adjunct professor of Chemistry at the University of Chattanooga. In early years he was a lay preacher in the Methodist Church while living in North Carolina.
Dr. Peterson was preceded in death by his wife Caroline George Peterson after 48 years of marriage; a daughter, Nancy Peterson and a son, Thomas Peterson.
Survivors include two sons, Dr. Mark Peterson and Dr. Steve Peterson; six grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.
A memorial service is planned for late October at Grace Episcopal Church in Chattanooga.
Arrangements are by the East Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, 404 South Moore Road, East Ridge, Tn.