Mr. Leonard Peterson, 81, of Rutherford College, passed away on Saturday, April 6, 2024, at Frye Regional Medical Center, Hickory, after a period of declining health.

Mr. Peterson was born January 5, 1943, in Mitchell County, a son of the late Stewart and Marie Hughes Peterson.  He was a retired carpenter, enjoyed NASCAR and loved to build anything with his hands.

Surviving are; his daughter, Robin Marie Peterson of Rutherford College; two sisters, Sharon Barnett and Jean Bennett both of Green Mountain, NC.  Also surviving are his grandson, Dustin Peterson and wife Charity of Connelly Springs; great-grandchildren, Kayla Warren (Alex), Chris Wiseman, Faith Carswell (Steven), Sam Peterson, Cambree Peterson; four great-great-grandchildren, Nevaeh Warren, Peyton Warren, Scooter Warren and Jack Brown; his best friend and former wife, Elizabeth Peterson.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 4:00 P.M., Sunday, April 14, 2024, in the Chapel of Heritage Funeral Service with Dustin Peterson officiating.

The family will receive friends from 3:00 until 4:00 P.M., Sunday, at Heritage Funeral Service, Valdese.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Mercy Missionary Baptist Church, 310 Excelsior Dr, Connelly Springs, NC 28612.

An online guestbook and obituary are available at www.heritagefuneralservices.com