Cochranton, PA - Grace Peterson, 99, of Cochranton, passed away July 6, 2026, at Rolling Fields Eldercare. Grace was born on November 26, 1926, in Hays, Pennsylvania, to Melissa Anne Kaufold and Harold Kaufold. In 1932, she and her family moved to Crawford County.

Grace excelled in school and loved reading and history. As many girls did at that time, she left school in the eighth grade to help at home. She met the love of her life, Kirk Peterson, when she was 12. When Kirk left to join the Army during World War II, Grace moved to Meadville and worked at Talon. Kirk and Grace were married February 2, 1946.

Together Kirk and Grace owned Peterson Brothers Salvage in Cochranton. Grace worked in the office until she was 91, at which time she decided to retire.

Grace was always involved in community activities. She was a member of Amaranth, serving as Royal Matron, and was a lifelong member of French Creek Antique Equipment Club, serving as kitchen manager for a number of years. Grace helped with the fundraising for Cochranton's new Public Library and was quite proud of the new building.

Grace was an excellent baker and was known as "The Cookie Lady." She was always present at Christmas Tree Lane and baked many a pie to help with fundraising. Grace served for many years as the per capita tax accessor for Fairfield Township and served on the election board.

Reading was her passion and read until her eyesight failed her. She listened to the news every night and kept up on the latest political events. Grace voted in every presidential election from the time she was 21, except one, one of Franklin Roosevelt's. She was truly an involved citizen.

Grace is survived by her daughter, Susan Armburger and son, Bill Peterson (Karen). She had four grandchildren, Eric Armburger, Kelley Armburger (Becky), Scott Peterson and Melissa Peterson; and two great-grandchildren, Emmett and Evey Peterson.

She was predeceased by her husband, Kirk; sisters Doris and Anne; and brothers Leslie, Harold, and Howard.

Graveside services will be conducted by Rev. Richard Motzing on Saturday, July 18, 2026, at 3:00 pm at Cochranton Cemetery. A celebration of life will be held at the Cochranton Fire Department following the services.

Dickson Family Funeral Home of Cochranton is in charge of arrangements.

Memorials may be made to Cochranton Area Public Library or Hospice of Crawford County.

Special thanks to all the Fig Street staff at Rolling Fields for their special care of a special lady.