Emma Peterson, a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on May 11, 2025, at the age of 88, surrounded by her loving family.

Born on October 2, 1936, in Costa Rica, she was the eldest of six siblings. In 1960, she bravely immigrated to Connecticut, where she built a life rooted in love, hard work, and resilience. She brought with her a deep appreciation for family, nature, and community, values she carried throughout her life.

While living in Norwalk, Connecticut, she met the love of her life, Frank, a marriage that lasted over 55 years. Frank's large family welcomed Emma, and their many adventures along the northern East Coast began. Her children Sonia and Lance have many fond memories of campouts and family gatherings.

In the early 1980s, Emma and Frank relocated to the Sequim area to be an integral part of their granddaughter's life. Emma worked as a hairstylist. In Sequim, she ran the 5th Ave Salon, supporting the residents there, as well as the larger Sequim community. They built their dream home along McDonald Creek, residing there for 35 years, and building deep ties with the other residents in the neighborhood. Upon Frank's passing in 2023, Emma moved to the Wyatt House on Bainbridge Island, to be closer to Sonia and her family. She enjoyed and benefited from the caring environment, and made new friends among the other residents and staff.

A passionate gardener, she found joy and peace in growing orchids, caring for bonsai trees, and tending to her outdoor plants. As a bird enthusiast she owned several parakeets and enjoyed feeding and watching the birds who frequented her gardens. She was also a loyal and enthusiastic fan of hockey, soccer, and football—rarely missing a game and always cheering with heart.

Emma is preceded in death by her husband Frank, sister Noemi, and brothers Alvaro, and Luis. She is lovingly remembered by her son, Lance Peterson (Colleen); her daughter, Sonia Scaer (Matt); her granddaughter, Jane Mangue (Justin); and her great-granddaughter, Emma Jean Mangue. She is also survived by her sisters, Dora Navarro of Sequim, WA, and Lilia Arroyo of Naranjo, Costa Rica; including step-sister Elia Arroyo, and step-brother Jorge Arroyo of Naranjo, Costa Rica, and many nieces and nephews.

Her strength, feistiness, and good humor will be missed deeply by all who knew her. She leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and beautifully tended gardens.

A private family service will be held in her memory. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to the Cornell Lab of Ornithology (https://give.birds.cornell.edu/page/167686/donate/1 ) in her honor.

.

Arrangements are under the care of Simplicity Cremation of Poulsbo, WA