Iva Dean Ogle Peterson

Iva Dean Ogle Peterson embarked on her final adventure on Aug. 29, 2024, leaving behind a colorful and enduring legacy. She lived through almost a century of change with a spirit that remained unbowed. She was a weaver of dreams and a keeper of stories, her quiet laughter ringing throughout her family’s home. She taught friends and loved ones that life is a tapestry of moments, each thread as important as the next. She was an avid sports fan and enjoyed a good game of cards.

As a member of the Greatest Generation, Dean was born in 1925 in Walland, Tennessee, to Abe and Tressie Davis Ogle. After graduating from Walland High School, she contributed to the war effort on the home front by working at Alcoa during WWII. She married R.F. Peterson and spent the next 20 years raising four children before fulfilling her ambition of going to work in the medical field.

Dean was the heart of her family, stitching together generations with love and grace and leaving behind a legacy of kindness and strength. She was preceded in death by her husband of 61 years, R.F. Peterson. Survivors include daughters Claudia Erwin and Sandy Blanz (husband, Larry) and sons Steve (wife, Laura) and Tim; grandchildren Chris, Julie, Eric, Sarah, Katie, and Becky; seven great-grandchildren; and two younger sisters, Eva Jo Ogle and Carolyn Davis.

Rest well, Nana—your story continues in every warm embrace and every whispered memory. We find solace that her spirit will forever dance in the spaces she brightened. In accordance to her wishes, there will be no services. The family will gather at a later time in a celebration of her remarkable life. In lieu of flowers, please donate to Vanderbilt Children’s Hospital, St. Jude’s, or a charity of your choice.