Peter O. Aaltonen

Peter Oscar Aaltonen passed away on Wednesday July 16, 2025 at Cherry Meadows Hospice Center in Appleton, WI. His family was with him when he passed from cancer at the age of 81. He is survived by his children; Eric Aaltonen, Kristen (Shane) Schroeder and grandchildren; Audrey Aaltonen, Josie Schroeder, and Amelia Schroeder.

Peter was born on November 4, 1943 in Ironwood, Michigan to Lars and Hannah Aaltonen. His father was a prominent Lutheran minister who brought his family from Finland to the U.S. to start a new life during WWII. He grew up in a hardworking farm family and later joined the Air Force. He served our country during the war in Vietnam, for which he received honors. He was married to Valerie and they later divorced. He was a natural at sales and enjoyed a lifelong career in this field.

Peter (also known as “Peter Dude”) was passionate about his hobbies. Playing a game of golf with friends or family was his favorite activity. He also enjoyed going on long bike rides to explore new trails or paths around the Fox Cities. The winter did not stop him from getting outdoors. In his younger years he was quite daring on skis. Peter and Eric had a few tricks on the downhill slopes and he enjoyed Nordic skiing with his family. He was also a musician with a captivating voice and guitar skills.

He was a loyal friend and enjoyed watching the Brewers and Packers games with his buddies. He liked making people laugh and knew so many jokes. Peter was full of sisu (extraordinary determination, resilience, and courage in the face of adversity) until the end.

Peter was preceded in death by his brothers, Levi and Laurie; sisters Betty, Ruthie, Helvi, and Rouni; and parents Lars and Hannah.

Join us to remember Peter’s life. A memorial service will be held on Friday August 1st, 2:00 PM at the Central Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Waupaca, WI.

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