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In Memoriam

Arlo Peterson - Class Of 1965 VIEW PROFILE

Arlo Peterson

PRECIOUS LORD TAKE MY HAND -- MAHALIA JACKSON 

Arlo David Peterson

Many of us remember Arlo.  The tall, blonde-haired, somewhat goofy, loveable guy who you just could not help but like.  He loved to laugh and he loved to joke.  He was Arlo and there was nobody like him.

He was in the French Club, Student Parliament. Drama Club (President) and Honor Society (treasurer).  He played the guitar and sang.  Some of his most memorable moments came from acting and playing various roles in high school plays.  Little did any of us know what a challenging and rewarding life was ahead of him.

Arlo attended Michigan State University after graduating from OHS and then graduated from the Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary in 1974.  He became a pastor in the Lutheran Church for the remainder of his working life.  He mostly served congregations on Long Island, New York and the New York City borough of Queens.

 

 

 

Michael Row the Boat Ashore -- The Highwaymen

 

In his early 20’s,  Arlo married.  He and his wife Stephanie adopted a boy.  The marriage did not last but Arlo and his ex-wife remained friends ever after.  Arlo’s ex-wife, son and daughter-in-law presently live in the State of Kansas.

 

The outgoing, caring and ministerial Arlo faced a challenge, however.  For years he held a secret that he finally could no longer hide.  According to an article in the publication Extraordinary Lutheran Ministries, Reverend Arlo had an office with a unique wall adornment.

 

“Inside the office of Pastor Arlo Peterson is an array of flying pigs.  Not just pigs.  Flying pink pigs.  According to Pastor Peterson it has been said that ‘there will be a gay Lutheran pastor when pigs fly.’  Well, on Sunday, November 11, 2001 the pink oinkers got their take off orders as Arlo David Peterson was installed as pastor of the Holy Trinity Church in Key West, Florida.”

 

Arlo had moved to Key West to become a case manager for AIDS Help, a local organization that was addressing the AIDS epidemic in the Florida Keys.  He also became an adjunct pastor at Holy Trinity Church.  According to Arlo in the above referenced article: 

 

“I came down here because I had friends who had suffered from HIV disease and I wanted to do something to help.  I have a gift of being able to get close to people, then back away at their death and not be destroyed by it.  It’s a very difficult thing to do.  But I felt God was calling me to do this work.”

 

 

 

 

Arlo and Stephanie Ax Peterson, Arlo's wife at the time photo was taken

Arlo had moved to Key West with a partner.  Because of being a non-celibate gay pastor, he was in violation of church rules.  As a result, he became part of a small group within the Lutheran Church that was at odds with the leadership.  Unfortunately, Arlo was ultimately removed from the ELCA clergy roster without his knowledge, only finding out two years later when contacted by the ELCA Board of Pensions.

Due to his mom’s poor health, Arlo retired and moved from Florida to Cadillac, Michigan, with his partner, Kevin Collins, seven years ago.  In Cadillac, Arlo continued to be active in community work until quickly succumbing to double pneumonia and passing away on July 9.

A few days after Arlo’s death, I was contacted by his partner Kevin Collins.  Kevin stated that Arlo enjoyed everything he did in life and he meant so much to the people with whom he came in contact.  He was a gentle man of faith and compassion.  According to Kevin, Arlo had a passion for lamps and clocks and that as a result you could not go into a room in the house without encountering some of Arlo’s eclectic collection.

 

There will be a celebration of life held in early August, details yet to be determined.

                                                     -- Gary Weeber

Join us Sunday, July 17, 2016, at noon (EDT) on OkemosAlumni.org in the chatroom to share our memories of a dear friend in a cellebration of his life in real time.  *****The Entire Chat is Transcribed Below*******(To enter chatroom, Mouse over Alumni News, Click Live Chat, then Click OK and the arrow). You may not be able to access chat on Smartphones.

Arlo Peterson 1947 -- 2016

Just a Closer Walk with Thee - Patsy Cline And Willie Nelson

 

Transcript: Arlo David Peterson Memorial Chat on OkemosAlumni.org

Time is Mountain Daylight Time, July 17, 2016

 

Wally Reese (1965) - July 17, 2016 9:42:10 AM

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GAfAko5dwoM.

Rock of Ages - Mormon Tabernacle Choir

 

Gary Weeber (1965) - July 17, 2016 9:45:03 AM

Wally, the Watch Video link did not work for me.

 

Wally Reese (1965) - July 17, 2016 9:45:57 AM

Cut and paste to a new window. I will be back. Gotta go catch a rattlesnake in my neighbor's chicken coup. The chickens are restless.

 

Rodney Ellis (1965) - July 17, 2016 9:49:48 AM

Rattlesnakes...and you thought you had problems, Gary

 

Gary Weeber (1965) - July 17, 2016 9:50:15 AM

Howdy Rod.

I saw the mass email you sent out. I assume that was to let classmates know they could call you? Did you get both if the emails I sent out?

 

I saw the mass email you sent out. I assume that was to let classmates know they could call you? Did you get both if the emails I sent out?

It will be interesting to see how many join. VERY late notice so I don't expect alot of participation...but who knows. I good time to start and see what happens.

 

Rodney Ellis (1965) - July 17, 2016 9:54:15 AM

My email was to our OHS cafeteria friends...sat at the same or close table

 

Gary Weeber (1965) - July 17, 2016 9:54:54 AM

Oh...I should have picked up on that because I think it did say "select".

 

Rodney Ellis (1965) - July 17, 2016 9:55:28 AM

I saw a few come in and out...John Dunkleberg

 

Maija/Marilou Peterson (1964) - July 17, 2016 9:56:41 AM

 

Rodney Ellis (1965) - July 17, 2016 9:56:53 AM

Ok, so takes about 10 minutes to get email thru the server

 

Gary Weeber (1965) - July 17, 2016 9:57:37 AM

Maija...thanks for joining. Been a long time and I am very saddened by Arlo's death. You have my most sincere thoughts.

 

Rodney Ellis (1965) - July 17, 2016 9:59:57 AM

Has LEFT chat.

 

Bob Bratzler (1964) - July 17, 2016 10:00:25 AM

Has JOINED chat ..

 

Wally Reese (1965) - July 17, 2016 10:01:48 AM

Charles Johnson & The Revivers - "I Can't Even Walk (Without You Holding My Hand)"

 

Gary Weeber (1965) - July 17, 2016 10:02:03 AM

Maija, I remember Arlo very fondly. One of the nicest people I ever knew. Did both of you go all the way throught the Okemos School System? It seems that I remember Arlo at a young age.

Wally Reese (1965) - July 17, 2016 10:02:05 AM

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5E3gKG3Nr0I&list=PLWEARUIdk06bg772MDd5ohiyLSaZ5gXBp.

 

Bob Bratzler (1964) - July 17, 2016 10:02:28 AM

Maija....glad you are able to join. My sympathies and condolences to you and your family.

 

Maija/Marilou Peterson (1964) - July 17, 2016 10:03:05 AM

Arlo was my best friend when we were kids. I have so many memories of the adventures we had together.

 

Bob Bratzler (1964) - July 17, 2016 10:04:07 AM

Maija....what are some of your memories of Arlo?

 

11:30 PM

Has JOINED chat ...

 

Gary Weeber (1965) - July 17, 2016 10:10:37 AM

Welcome David. Are you part of Arlo's family?

 

Rodney Ellis (1965) - July 17, 2016 10:12:13 AM

Hi all. Arlo and I were good friends, sang a lot of songs together. I keep trying to attach a picture I took at a party in Carolyn Fishel's basement...Arlo singing.

 

Gary Weeber (1965) - July 17, 2016 10:12:26 AM

Hi all. Arlo and I were good friends, sang a lot of songs together. I keep trying to attach a picture I took at a party in Carolyn Fishel's basement...Arlo singing.

 

Bob Bratzler (1964) - July 17, 2016 10:15:09 AM

Maija....are you "talking"....I do not see any of your messages....maybe I am doing something wrong.?

 

Maija....are you "talking"....I do not see any of your messages....maybe I am doing something wrong.?

 

Martha Peterson (Modene) (1974) - July 17, 2016 10:15:48 AM

Has LEFT chat.

 

Rodney Ellis (1965) - July 17, 2016 10:15:57 AM

We mostly remember Arlo as High School friends, but my wife (Cassie) knew him in college (Justin Morrill) at MSU

 

Gary Weeber (1965) - July 17, 2016 10:17:22 AM

I remember Arlo singing but I also remember his participation in plays. I was in some with him and remember how much he enjoyed that.

 

David Peterson (1971) - July 17, 2016 10:17:31 AM

This is David. Yes, Arlo happened to be one of my brothers.

 

Maija/Marilou Peterson (1964) - July 17, 2016 10:19:27 AM

Thank you all for your comforting words. One of the first memories--Mom had told us about the Swedish practice of taking a good, hot bath and then running outside and rolling in the snow, naked. We were both attracted by the idea, so we took a hot bath and ran outside in the snow and were having a lot of fun. It would have been a better experience if our big brother Al hadn't locked us out. Still haven't gotten even for that one.

 

Gary Weeber (1965) - July 17, 2016 10:20:07 AM

Very funny Maija.

 

Gary Weeber (1965) - July 17, 2016 10:20:26 AM

How many kids were in the family?

 

David Peterson (1971) - July 17, 2016 10:21:34 AM

Thanks. There are so many things I could say about Arlo, but don't know where to start. Arlo and I were best friends throughout much of our post-Okemos lives.

 

Bob Bratzler (1964) - July 17, 2016 10:21:59 AM

Maija and David, I remember your house on Hamilton Road quite well. You lived next door to Cary Hawkins, one of my good friends where I would play in the 6th grade...

 

Gary Weeber (1965) - July 17, 2016 10:23:03 AM

I remember the house as well, I think. Was it white? I have vague recollections of visiting Arlo there.

 

David Peterson (1971) - July 17, 2016 10:23:28 AM

Bob Bratzler - I don't know what FB post you are referring to. If it was me, I hope I was nice. You see, I've been a little irritable for the last week or so.

 

Bob Bratzler (1964) - July 17, 2016 10:24:41 AM

David, You responded that you went to Sweden and then to school in Berkeley after high school, and NOT UofM. Is that you?

 

Martha Peterson (Modene) (1974) - July 17, 2016 10:25:31 AM

I am Arlo's younger and much nicer sister. Arlo and I were always very close and used to sing a lot together in later years. He was always very upbeat and a lot of fun. Great sense of humor and always wonderful to spend time with. The house was indeed white, and large, and next door to the Hawkins family.

 

David Peterson (1971) - July 17, 2016 10:25:39 AM

David Peterson (1971) - July 17, 2016 10:25:39 AM

 

Maija/Marilou Peterson (1964) - July 17, 2016 10:26:18 AM

We had six kids in the family, and it was a lively group. There was always someone to play with and to share the blame. Yes, the house was white and very large, and we housed people who had nowhere to go--foreign students, mostly.

We had six kids in the family, and it was a lively group. There was always someone to play with and to share the blame. Yes, the house was white and very large, and we housed people who had nowhere to go--foreign students, mostly.

 

Gary Weeber (1965) - July 17, 2016 10:27:21 AM

Glad my memory was correct. I do remember it as being large. Sounds like it was a wonderful home environment.

 

Bob Bratzler (1964) - July 17, 2016 10:27:30 AMDavid and Martha, Where do you live now? How often did you get together with your siblings?

 

David Peterson (1971) - July 17, 2016 10:27:49 AM

Yes, Bob, that was me. I guess many of my classmates went to UofM, but I needed to get away from Michigan. So that's how I ended up on the west coast and eventually Berkeley.

 

Martha Peterson (Modene) (1974) - July 17, 2016 10:29:05 AM

It was the best house ever. I live near Reed City, Michigan. We don't get together nearly often enough and try to make a special time of it when we do. Don't know how to fill Arlo's spot in the next family picture.

 

Marcia Johnson (Skelton) (1965) - July 17, 2016 10:29:14 AM

Has JOINED chat ...

 

Maija/Marilou Peterson (1964) - July 17, 2016 10:30:26 AM

We would bring people home without announcing ahead of time but they were fit into the family and got to sleep in somebody's bed and the somebody slept on the floor.

 

Bob Bratzler (1964) - July 17, 2016 10:30:58 AM

Maija, What did your father do for a living. I seem to remember him having a big booming voice. Correct?

 

David Peterson (1971) - July 17, 2016 10:31:01 AM

I live in Key West, FL. Arlo followed me here after I suggested that the "climate" here was nicer than Long Island. Meaning that it is always warm here, of course, but that also that the hearts here are very warm, accepting and loving regardless of race, creed, sexual orientation, etc.

 

Martha Peterson (Modene) (1974) - July 17, 2016 10:31:23 AM

That happened more in the "older kids" era. I didn't bring home that many strays and there was plenty of extra room by the time I did.

 

Gary Weeber (1965) - July 17, 2016 10:31:58 AM

Having had perepheral contact with Arlo over the last few years, I have to comment how much I admire him. He clearly was an exceptionally warm, caring and loving person and was so when life presented him with some real challenges.

 

Maija/Marilou Peterson (1964) - July 17, 2016 10:32:35 AM

My dad was an associate professor at MSU.

 

Bob Bratzler (1964) - July 17, 2016 10:32:38 AM

David, When did you first learn/suspect that Arlo was gay? He must have had a tough time reconciling the position of his church with his own values.

 

Gary Weeber (1965) - July 17, 2016 10:32:46 AM

Welcome to chat Marcia.

 

Martha Peterson (Modene) (1974) - July 17, 2016 10:33:30 AM

And non-judgmental.

 

Marcia Johnson (Skelton) (1965) - July 17, 2016 10:34:21 AM

I remember Arlo as one of the kindest people I have ever met. And Marilou, I have fond memories of talks with you, @ Dr. Varners office! I am so sorry for your loss. He was one of the, "good guys" !

 

Bob Bratzler (1964) - July 17, 2016 10:35:09 AM

Maija, My father was an Assoc. Prof at MSU, too. Funny how I never knew/asked what our parents did for a living.

 

Maija/Marilou Peterson (1964) - July 17, 2016 10:35:27 AM

Dad was in the Extension Service, and involved in Partners of the Americas and other exchange programs. That is where a lot of the foreign student "strays" came from.

 

Bob Bratzler (1964) - July 17, 2016 10:36:25 AM

Has LEFT chat.

 

Gary Weeber (1965) - July 17, 2016 10:36:30 AM

I have discovered that many classmates had parents working at MSU in varying capacities. In hindsight, it makes sense but at that time we never thought about it.

 

Marcia Johnson (Skelton) (1965) - July 17, 2016 10:36:44 AM

My dad was a professor of Ag. Econ.

 

Maija/Marilou Peterson (1964) - July 17, 2016 10:36:58 AM

the details were vague.

 

David Peterson (1971) - July 17, 2016 10:37:13 AM

I knew Arlo was gay when I visited him while he was studying at the Lutheran Seminary in Chicago. It took Arlo many years to figure it out. I'll never forget the night he phoned me (I was living in Massachussetts at the time and he on Long Island) and said he had a surprise for me. He just said flatly "David, I'm gay." I laughed out loud and said "Did you really just figure that out? Welcome to the world Arlo."

 

Gary Weeber (1965) - July 17, 2016 10:37:31 AM

For sure Maija. We were far too much into each other as opposed to what our parents might do for a living.

 

Rodney Ellis (1965) - July 17, 2016 10:37:50 AM

My dad sold all the faculty insurance! Does that count?

 

Marcia Johnson (Skelton) (1965) - July 17, 2016 10:38:01 AM

YES!

 

Gary Weeber (1965) - July 17, 2016 10:38:30 AM

David, I can only imagine the struggle that was for Arlo.

Bob Bratzler (1964) - July 17, 2016 10:38:34 AM

David, Why do you think it took him so long to "know thyself"?

 

Marcia Johnson (Skelton) (1965) - July 17, 2016 10:38:41 AM

I wish I could have heard Arlo preach......................

 

Marcia Johnson (Skelton) (1965) - July 17, 2016 10:39:36 AM

Marylou, do you have any of his sermons?????

 

Gary Weeber (1965) - July 17, 2016 10:39:45 AM

My mother was an executive secretary at MSU, mostly at both the mens

 

Gary Weeber (1965) - July 17, 2016 10:40:00 AM

sorry....men's and women's intramural program

 

Bob Bratzler (1964) - July 17, 2016 10:40:12 AM

David, I have a second cousin who is a retired minister in the ELCA. I want to write him and tell him that the church is wrong in what they did to Arlo (removed him as a minister without notice and discontinued his pension). What do you think?

 

Maija/Marilou Peterson (1964) - July 17, 2016 10:40:46 AM

Okemos used to be a bedroom community for MSU faculty, and had a varied population.
Now it is a yuppified place with helicopter parents and play dates. Does anyone else remember just going to somebody's house and ask if they could come out and play?

 

Gary Weeber (1965) - July 17, 2016 10:41:03 AM

Absolutely remember that.

 

Martha Peterson (Modene) (1974) - July 17, 2016 10:41:05 AM

Bob, DO IT!! They need to hear it from others! Please!!

 

Bob Bratzler (1964) - July 17, 2016 10:41:55 AM

Martha, I will write! Can you please provide me more details of his case? Please email me at rbratzler@gmail.com. Thanks.

 

Gary Weeber (1965) - July 17, 2016 10:42:17 AM

It was a different time. I remember coming home from school with my sister Dawn and being all alone because both of our parents worked. From there it was hopping on a bike and finding someone to play with.

 

Marcia Johnson (Skelton) (1965) - July 17, 2016 10:42:24 AM

Why did they remove him? ELCA is very liberal.

 

David Peterson (1971) - July 17, 2016 10:42:51 AM

I think that Arlo always knew, but the denial of society in general and the culture of the church then (and now) made it very difficult for him. Arlo was at peace with himself, but had a horrible struggle with the church to whom he had dedicated his life. They abandoned him, tossed him to the side of the road. Bob, YES by all means do it! Send the letter. They were so, so wrong.

 

Bob Bratzler (1964) - July 17, 2016 10:42:54 AM

Marcia, Presumably because he was outwardly gay and non-celibate.

 

Maija/Marilou Peterson (1964) - July 17, 2016 10:42:57 AM

Bob, I have the letter that Arlo wrote to the powers that be in ELCA. I will forward it to your email.

 

David Peterson (1971) - July 17, 2016 10:43:15 AM

ELCA was and IS anything but liberal.

 

Martha Peterson (Modene) (1974) - July 17, 2016 10:43:39 AM

I just know that he fought with the Bishop(s) to try and get them to recognize him for his time as a pastor, his education, etc. Maija--glad you have the letter. That takes pressure off me!

 

Bob Bratzler (1964) - July 17, 2016 10:44:11 AM

Has LEFT chat.

 

Marcia Johnson (Skelton) (1965) - July 17, 2016 10:44:58 AM

AND freedom that kids don't get to have ,now. We used to trick-or-treat , alone. We went in to stranger's houses to show off our coustumes. We even crossed Mt. Hope @ night--ALONE! It was SO much fun. I wish I could give that,"safe" life to the kids, now.

 

Marcia Johnson (Skelton) (1965) - July 17, 2016 10:45:32 AM

I am a good letter writer.................!!!!!!!!

 

Bob Bratzler (1964) - July 17, 2016 10:46:31 AM

Petersons: I will draft a letter for your review before I send it. My second cousin, coincidentally, in in charge of the 500 year celebration the ELCA is planning to commemorate Martin Luther nailing his theses on the church door....

David Peterson (1971) - July 17, 2016 10:46:31 AM

The church in Key West basically told the Lutheran Bishop that regardless of what the bishop said, they wanted Arlo as their pastor! The bishopric responded that the congregation was WRONG and they needed to get a properly ordained pastor. "Mr. Peterson" could not be their pastor.

 

Marcia Johnson (Skelton) (1965) - July 17, 2016 10:47:04 AM

ELCA in E. Lansing is liberal. .... or used to be.

 

Rodney Ellis (1965) - July 17, 2016 10:47:20 AM

Bob, I'd like to join in with you on a letter. I'm a confirmed Lutheran (with Kristin Powell and Claudia Coohon, OHS '65), as well as a retired pension consultant.

 

Bob Bratzler (1964) - July 17, 2016 10:47:27 AM

David, What happened to the status of the church. Were they "excommunicated", too?

 

Martha Peterson (Modene) (1974) - July 17, 2016 10:47:30 AM

Thank you, Bob!! I appreciate it very much!

 

Gary Weeber (1965) - July 17, 2016 10:47:36 AM

It is so unfortunate that as a society we are still so judgemental regarding sexual orientation. I actually ache for those that have to experience that and the struggle it presents. Arlo appears to have done it admirably...which does not surprise me. His partner Kevin called me to inform me of Arlo's death and we had a wonderful conversation. His love for Arlo was obvious.

 

Marcia Johnson (Skelton) (1965) - July 17, 2016 10:48:26 AM

I am also a confirmed Lutheran, Rod.

 

Marcia Johnson (Skelton) (1965) - July 17, 2016 10:48:42 AM

Letter writing Lutheran!!!!!!!!

 

Bob Bratzler (1964) - July 17, 2016 10:49:13 AM

Martha, Did you graduate from OHS, too? If so, what class year?

 

David Peterson (1971) - July 17, 2016 10:49:19 AM

As it turned out, Trinity Lutheran in Key West had major financial difficulties, and combined with declining membership roles they had to "close their doors." Arlo had already moved back to Michigan by then.

 

Rodney Ellis (1965) - July 17, 2016 10:49:23 AM

You are a good letter writer, Marcia

 

Maija/Marilou Peterson (1964) - July 17, 2016 10:49:40 AM

We grew up in a religious home, mainstream Protestant, including reading the Bible and a publication called "The Upper Room". However, we were free to choose our own way, and we did. Marcia, you are the person who had the most influence in Arlo choosing the Lutheran church.

 

Gary Weeber (1965) - July 17, 2016 10:49:41 AM

It might be possible to figure out a way for others in the class to participate in letter writing if it would be helpful.

 

Martha Peterson (Modene) (1974) - July 17, 2016 10:50:06 AM

Kevin talked to me about conversing with you, Gary. I think it was extremely helpful to him to speak freely with you. Kevin was the best when it came to taking care of Arlo. We can never repay him for all that he did over the years. I graduated from OHS in 1974, ten years after you and my seester.

 

Marcia Johnson (Skelton) (1965) - July 17, 2016 10:50:41 AM

I agree with you, Gary. What a struggle he must have had..........

 

Martha Peterson (Modene) (1974) - July 17, 2016 10:50:49 AM

The you in the previous mentioned being Bob!

 

Marcia Johnson (Skelton) (1965) - July 17, 2016 10:52:04 AM

I didn't know that, Marilou.

 

Bob Bratzler (1964) - July 17, 2016 10:52:22 AM

Martha, Kevin spoke with Gary, not me. Had I known that he was ill I would have visited him on my drive "up north" a few weeks ago.

 

Martha Peterson (Modene) (1974) - July 17, 2016 10:53:28 AM

Yes, I got too many "yous" in there. Kevin did speak with Gary, and I graduated 10 years after you (Bob) and Maija.

 

Gary Weeber (1965) - July 17, 2016 10:53:57 AM

Chat can be confusing 

 

Martha Peterson (Modene) (1974) - July 17, 2016 10:54:12 AM

"You" know it!

 

Rodney Ellis (1965) - July 17, 2016 10:54:30 AM

I keep trying to "share" a picture of Arlo at a party, oh well...it's on this site, Class Homepage, 1965, 2015 50th Photo's, High School days.

 

Bob Bratzler (1964) - July 17, 2016 10:55:01 AM

Martha, David, and Maija: Please keep all informed as the plans for the memorial service are firmed up. Thanks.

 

Maija/Marilou Peterson (1964) - July 17, 2016 10:55:05 AM

Marcia, I changed my name legally after years of discomfort; I was named after a former girlfriend of my dad's.

 

David Peterson (1971) - July 17, 2016 10:55:16 AM

Yes, we certainly grew up in a very religious home! And as life unfolded for the six kids, on a religious level anyway, we each went in a different direction. Just like the six compass points in three-dimensional space.

 

Bob Bratzler (1964) - July 17, 2016 10:56:00 AM

David, I take it that Arlo was the most religious. Correct?

 

Martha Peterson (Modene) (1974) - July 17, 2016 10:56:12 AM

Maija was named for a former student of our father's, not a girlfriend. I keep reminding her of that.

 

Bob Bratzler (1964) - July 17, 2016 10:56:48 AM

M, D, and M: Where is Alvin, your elder sibling?

 

David Peterson (1971) - July 17, 2016 10:57:44 AM

I can't say that. Arlo was the one who had "religion" as his way of life. But the "most religious" is hard to say. We all have something in our hearts and lives.

 

Martha Peterson (Modene) (1974) - July 17, 2016 10:57:49 AM

Al lives up north near Tustin. Has a beautiful home in the woods, built on land that our father bought years ago.

 

Maija/Marilou Peterson (1964) - July 17, 2016 10:58:08 AM

Arlo and I would "sneak out" late at night to go to St. Mary's Cathedral just to sit and think. We also took classes at St. Andrew's Orthodox church. We did a lot of exploring.

 

Bob Bratzler (1964) - July 17, 2016 10:58:37 AM

Has LEFT chat.

 

Bob Bratzler (1964) - July 17, 2016 10:59:59 AM

Which seminary did Arlo attend/graduate? I want all the details for my letter to the ELCA!

 

Marcia Johnson (Skelton) (1965) - July 17, 2016 11:00:11 AM

Maija, it is ! Arlo was the picture of love and kindness. I don't EVER remember him doing , or saying anything mean. Maija, you are Swedish, right??? I am, too.

 

Aleda Knol (Knol) (1963) - July 17, 2016 11:01:43 AM

I am Aleda Greydanus Knol, Maija Peterson's sister-in-law. I did not have the privilege to know Arlo personally. I joined this chat today to learn more about him and I'm glad I did. From what you have said today I only wish I could have known him. He not only sounds kind, thoughtful and fun, but also brave. And whether he realized it or not he helped the church move one step closer to being more accepting of gay leadership. I am so sorry Maija, for you and your entire family, for this incredible loss. May you recieve a special measure of peace during the difficult weeks and months ahead. Love to you all.

 

Bob Bratzler (1964) - July 17, 2016 11:02:04 AM

Just googled ELCA and Gay. Turns out the ELCA has reversed its position on gay marriage.

 

Maija/Marilou Peterson (1964) - July 17, 2016 11:02:14 AM

100%!!

 

Gary Weeber (1965) - July 17, 2016 11:02:30 AM

Gary Weeber (1965) has shared image /Users/weeberg1/Desktop.

 

Bob Bratzler (1964) - July 17, 2016 11:02:34 AM

"CHICAGO (ELCA) – The Rev. Elizabeth A. Eaton, presiding bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), offered a pastoral letter June 30 to the 3.8 million members of the denomination in response to the recent Supreme Court ruling that same-sex couples may now exercise the right to marry. The full text of the statement follows:" Here is the link: http://www.elca.org/News-and-Events/7759

 

Gary Weeber (1965) - July 17, 2016 11:04:05 AM

I also just tried to share a picture on chat and cannot get it to work. It was a picture of Arlo in one of the plays he participated in while in HS.

 

Martha Peterson (Modene) (1974) - July 17, 2016 11:04:47 AM

Aleda, thank you for your kind and comforting words. I remember meeting you at our mother's memorial service.

 

Bob Bratzler (1964) - July 17, 2016 11:05:06 AM

Has LEFT chat.

 

David Peterson (1971) - July 17, 2016 11:05:07 AM

Stepping away from the church for a second. I remember the time Arlo and I were flying from San Francisco to Colorado Springs. I had a bag of pot to conceal and we hid it inside of Arlo's polaroid camera. Arlo had his clerics on (you know, the collar that some sects wear) and we figured that he would just breeze through security. I was the long-haired hippie type who was much more likely to be searched. Imagine the look of horror on Arlo's face as they escorted him "behind the curtain". It all worked out - they didn't find the contraband. We laughed a LOT about it later.

 

Bob Bratzler (1964) - July 17, 2016 11:05:39 AM

Here is some of the ELCA press release text:

 

Gary Weeber (1965) - July 17, 2016 11:05:43 AM

Wonderful story David.

 

Wonderful story David.

Thanks for the link, Bob. If Arlo and Kevin had been able to have a relationship recognized by law, there would be survivor's benefits for Kevin, just as widows and widowers do. Instead, he gets nothing.

 

Bob Bratzler (1964) - July 17, 2016 11:05:48 AM

The ELCA social statement "Human Sexuality: Gift and Trust" (2009) neither endorses nor forbids same-gender marriages and recognizes that we have differing understandings and convictions on this matter. In its decision, the court stated that "the First Amendment ensures that religious organizations and persons are given proper protection as they seek to teach the principles that are so fulfilling and so central to their lives and faiths." According to this church's social statement on human sexuality, all decisions about recognizing, supporting and holding publicly accountable same-gender relationships are entrusted to congregations. Recognizing that the church is not of one mind on this subject, our 2009 actions provide that congregations and clergy should discern together whether to recognize such relationships and to what degree. Pastors are to engage in conversation, discernment and partnership with the congregations who have called them prior to solemnizing or presiding over a

 

Wally Reese (1965) - July 17, 2016 11:07:04 AM

Wally Reese (1965) has shared video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VdXmkW47Yt8.

 

Wally Reese (1965) - July 17, 2016 11:07:06 AM

Sisters Of Glory - I'll Take You There / Oh Happy Day - 8/14/1994 (Official)

 

Bob Bratzler (1964) - July 17, 2016 11:07:09 AM

... over a same-gender marriage. On the other hand, no pastor is obligated to solemnize the marriage of any couple, same-gender or different-gender, whom the pastor cannot in good conscience marry.

 

Wally Reese (1965) - July 17, 2016 11:09:01 AM

I'm back. One rattlesnake corraled and transplanted.

 

Gary Weeber (1965) - July 17, 2016 11:09:02 AM

With regret, I need to leave chat and engage in other activities. Maija, Martha and David, you have a place in my heart thanks to Arlo and I wish you the very best. Arlo was a gift and will be truly missed.

 

Martha Peterson (Modene) (1974) - July 17, 2016 11:09:38 AM

Bye Gary!! Thank you!!

 

Maija/Marilou Peterson (1964) - July 17, 2016 11:10:09 AM

Remember when people believed that being gay could be cured?

 

Aleda Knol (Knol) (1963) - July 17, 2016 11:10:15 AM

Has LEFT chat.

 

Maija/Marilou Peterson (1964) - July 17, 2016 11:11:17 AM

Gary, thank you for the memories of my brother Arlo.

 

David Peterson (1971) - July 17, 2016 11:12:11 AM

Yeah, being gay was like being a Moonie. You just need a little de-programming and you could be cured from the brainwashing you have suffered.

 

Wally Reese (1965) - July 17, 2016 11:12:14 AM

I didn't know Arlo well during HS and not at all as adults. Another giant. I never cease to be amazed when I here the life stories of struggle coupled with service to some of the most neglected and opressed populations on earth. I wish I had known him better and would love to work up some more extensive biographical mterials.

 

Bob Bratzler (1964) - July 17, 2016 11:13:33 AM

M, D, and M: I have to go now...please send me materials for the letter which I will compose. This might be one way to honor Arlo. Thanks. Bob Bratzler

 

Martha Peterson (Modene) (1974) - July 17, 2016 11:13:41 AM

Thank you, all, for the memories. I have to leave and attend to some other issues. Hugs to all of you!!

 

Marcia Johnson (Skelton) (1965) - July 17, 2016 11:13:54 AM

Thank you for this. Again, to his family, I am so sorry for your loss......

 

Marcia Johnson (Skelton) (1965) - July 17, 2016 11:14:06 AM

Has LEFT chat.

 

Rodney Ellis (1965) - July 17, 2016 11:14:13 AM

Maija, David and Martha, perhaps you can work with Wally and write a biography of Arlo

 

Martha Peterson (Modene) (1974) - July 17, 2016 11:14:30 AM

Has LEFT chat.

 

Rodney Ellis (1965) - July 17, 2016 11:15:32 AM

I did spend the last few days listening to gospel and other sacred and not so sacred music and selecting some of the best for today's chat. Some are uplifting and others make the tears roll. I loved the Mavis Staples solo on the selection from the Sisters of Glory.

 

Rodney Ellis (1965) - July 17, 2016 11:16:05 AM

Has LEFT chat.

 

Anne Harvey (Smith) (1965) - July 17, 2016 12:21:23 PM

Has JOINED chat ...

 

Wally Reese (1965) - July 17, 2016 12:22:49 PM

Hi Anne, Looks like you and me against the world. Did you know Arlo well?

 

Anne Harvey (Smith) (1965) - July 17, 2016 12:26:05 PM

Has LEFT chat.

 

Wally Reese (1965) - July 17, 2016 12:26:15 PM

A newly ordained Baptist Minister?

 

Anne Harvey (Smith) (1965) - July 17, 2016 12:26:48 PM

Has JOINED chat ...

 

Anne Harvey (Smith) (1965) - July 17, 2016 12:33:32 PM

Hi Wally, I did not know Arlo well. I just remember his tall frame walking through the halls. God bless Arlo for his convictions. Our generation certainly broke through some barriers. Yup, I am newly ordained. God called me after retirement and after seminary. I just wanted to know more about God. It wasn't my plan to be a minister. God has a sense of humor. And Arlo is an example that God loves us ALL, no matter what.

 

Wally Reese (1965) - July 17, 2016 12:34:22 PM

My grandparents were very strict baptists. No fire or hot foods. No just about everything. No cards on Sunday except when the grandsons visited. My grandfather loved to play eucre with us and we were there such a short period of time Sunday prohibitions were held in abeyance.

 

Anne Harvey (Smith) (1965) - July 17, 2016 12:35:37 PM

Wally, luckily, many Baptist churches have changed and loving and obey God is much more important than obeying some crazy man-made rules.

 

Wally Reese (1965) - July 17, 2016 12:36:16 PM

You just missed Marcia. Her life of service as a psychiatric nurse borders on sainthood. We have a few of those in our class. Lots of devout and devoted.

 

Anne Harvey (Smith) (1965) - July 17, 2016 12:36:58 PM

Thanks for the chat today, and I'm sad when we lose another class member. Blessing on all.

 

Wally Reese (1965) - July 17, 2016 12:37:58 PM

Rules were experience based. Water was so contaminated that whiskey was the only safe thing to drink. I had realatives known as the Coldwater Jones'. All you got to drink there was cold spring water.

 

Anne Harvey (Smith) (1965) - July 17, 2016 12:38:31 PM

Has LEFT chat.

 

 

 

 

 

 
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07/20/16 08:40 AM #1    

Rodney Ellis (Alumni Assoc. President) (1965)

Irene Townsend, Arlo Peterson and Cindy Johnson 1964.  Arlo was always the life of the party, here in Carolyn Fishel's basement.  Carolyn, Irene and Arlo went on to Justin Morrill College at MSU where Carolyn and Irene introduced me to their roomate, Cassie Barnes.  Almost 50 years later, my wife Cassie remembers Arlo well as the tall, happy, good-spirited, dear friend from Okemos.  With Arlo in the group, the parties would go on in the basement of Snyder-Phillips Hall.  To meet him was to like him, to know him was to love him.  The world needs him, his passing is our loss.


07/21/16 12:43 AM #2    

Gary Weeber (1965)

MESSAGE FROM STEPHANIE PETERSON (NOW LAGO):  Good Morning Rod, Thank you for the information you have added about Arlo. It is very kind. FYI Arlo was a 1974 graduate of PLTS Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary in Oakland, California. Arlo and I were married in Chicago from 1973 - 1986. During that time he was assistant pastor at St. David's Lutheran in Massapequa Park, NY and later at St. Paul's Lutheran Church, New Hyde Park, NY - LCA. Our son, Andrew Peterson, was born in 1978. Neither Andrew nor I live in Kansas City - never have. Andrew and his wife live in Park City, Kansas. My husband and I live in Peabody, Kansas where I have been for 25 years. Both Andrew and I spoke with Arlo and Kevin frequently. We were both shocked at Arlo's rapid decline from the double pneumonia. Arlo had gallantly faced various health challenges in the past 10 years. We were and continue to be very proud of him. Our hearts are broken. Thank you, Rod, for all that you do. Stephanie I am contacting you with the service information for Arlo: The Celebration of Life Service for Arlo will be held on Wednesday, August 10th @ 1:00 p.m. at the United Methodist Church, 1020 E. Division Street, Cadillac, Michigan , 49601. There is no designated charity as Arlo was involved in so many different areas of charity. Kevin suggested you make a donation to your favorite special need / group in Arlo's name. If you should decide to send a donation to the UMC church in Cadillac, they are currently involved in putting together back packs for under-privileged kids. Any assistance would be appreciated. Thank you. Stephanie


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