Obituary for Bette J Peterson
In Loving Memory of Bette J. Peterson
November 30, 1933 – July 30, 2025
Bette J. Peterson has gone to glory, where we imagine her lighting up heaven with her signature smile, sparkling eyes, and joyful encouragement.
Born in Freeland, Pennsylvania during the Great Depression, Bette was the youngest of three children to Anthony and Leona Novitsky. Her inquisitive mind, spiritual heart, and enduring optimism were shaped through the challenges of her childhood. She explored religious life with the Dominican Sisters before graduating as valedictorian and pursuing a career in office administration.
At 19, while working for Bendix in Detroit, she met and married John C. Smith. They settled in Columbus, Ohio, raised three children—John, Sharon, and Lois—and embraced the rhythms of family life and post-war America. Bette balanced work and motherhood with grace, supporting small businesses and honing her skills in administration and communication.
In 1978, the family moved to Colorado. Bette thrived in a new chapter—working at Johns Manville, navigating life after divorce, and leading vibrant singles ministries at her church. There, she met the love of her later life, Joe Peterson. Their marriage marked a season of shared creativity as they launched the Joe Peterson Orchestra, a celebrated big band that brought joy to audiences across central Colorado. Bette was the powerhouse behind the scenes—managing bookings, contracts, and even founding TalentNet to support fellow performers.
After a stroke in 2014 and years of living with dementia, Bette passed peacefully at home in Littleton, surrounded by her family and her beloved Joe.
A Celebration of Life will be held on May 8, 2026 with a mass at Light of the World Church, A a joyful reception at Governors Ranch Party House will be held Saturday, May 10. Friends and family will be invited to join us as we honor Bette with music, laughter, and gratitude for the beautiful legacy she leaves behind.
To plant a tree in memory of Bette J Peterson, visit the Tribute Store.
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