Michael John Peterson, Winona Lake, passed away unexpectedly from heart failure on Thursday, Feb. 17, 2022, at the age of 64.

Michael John Peterson

He was born on Aug. 6, 1957, in Northridge, Calif., to Diane (Strathern) Peterson Casper and Frederic Delbert Peterson.

Michael graduated from high school in 1975 in Coon Rapids, Iowa. He proudly served in the United States Marine Corps from Oct. 6, 1976, until his honorable discharge on July 18, 1980, with the rank of lance corporal.

He moved to Kosciusko County 20 years ago and made Winona Lake his home. He was a self-employed software developer who was always a kind and happy guy.

He loved music especially Louis Armstrong’s song “What a Wonderful World.” Michael enjoyed playing the guitar and keyboard. One of his favorite sounds was simply hearing children laughing.

Michael loved to travel and collected antiques. He really liked old signs, painting and fishing. He had a wonderful heart, and his big bear hugs will be forever missed by his family. Michael will always be remembered as a loving son, father, grandfather and brother.

He will be lovingly remembered by his two daughters, Amber Janel Laubach, Apalachin, N.Y., and Leana Bickers and her partner, Paul Reilman, New Orleans, La.; and two grandchildren, Sabrina and Rex. He also leaves behind his mother, Diane Casper, Warsaw; sister Lori (Jaime) Davila, Warsaw; three brothers, Kenneth Edward Aguilar, Warsaw, Tony (Peggy) Aguilar, Calabasas, Calif., and John (Amy) Aguilar, West Virginia; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father, Frederic; sister Lori Arlene; and his brother, Fred Richard. Michael was raised by Kenneth Robert Aguilar, who also preceded him in death.

No service is planned; the family will mourn his passing privately. Thoughts and prayers are appreciated.

Arrangements are entrusted to Redpath-Fruth Funeral Home, 225 Argonne Road, Warsaw.

Memorial donations may be directed to the American Heart Association, 6500 Technology Center Drive, Suite 100, Indianapolis, IN 46278.

Online condolences may be sent through the funeral home’s website at www.redpathfruthfuneralhome.com.