Donald ”Don” Edward Peterson
Celebrating the Life of Donald “Don” Edward Peterson
Donald ”Don” Edward Peterson, 77, of League City, TX passed from this earth Thursday August 1, 2024 in League City, Texas.
Don was born June 27, 1947, to Doris Bennett Peterson and Clarence William Peterson in Chicago, Illinois. The most important moment of Don’s life was when he met his beloved wife Peggy in Bowling Green Kentucky while attending Western Kentucky University. On a chilly afternoon in 1968 Don saw Peggy wearing his coat while he was playing football with some friends. When he asked for it back, Peggy didn’t believe it to be his. A mild argument ensued, but eventually Peggy realized it was his coat, they had a chuckle and a date that night. That’s how their 57 years of love for one another began.
Don’s distant 2nd love to his wife and family was, without question, the broadcast industry. He sold and managed radio stations for over 40 years in numerous markets. His broadcast career began in Kentucky, and his success there led him to larger opportunities in Houston, Kansas City, and Orlando. But the taste of Texas was too sweet for he and Peggy…and he ended up coming back to Houston to finish out his radio career as Western Division Manager for Nationwide Broadcasting. In addition to his broadcast leadership, Don proudly served on the board of the March of Dimes, receiving numerous awards for his philanthropic efforts. In 2014, Don was inducted into the Texas Radio Hall of Fame. Despite these great accomplishments, Don’s biggest reward was watching his sons follow in his footsteps.
Throughout Don’s career, he forged many friendships with numerous celebrities that are proud to call him their friend. From Frank Sinatra, Muhammed Ali, Waylon and Willy, even Hulk Hogan just to name a few…Don had a gift for forging relationships with people no matter who they were.
Don was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend to many who will dearly miss him. Following his career, Don was actively involved with the Brotherhood of the Coast. Known as “Big Dog”, he served as the captain of the Houston table for many years where he and Peggy built many lifelong friendships in Houston and all around the world.
Those left behind to cherish his memory are his loving wife Margaret “Peggy” Isabel Brown Peterson of League City, TX, sons Nicholas William Peterson & Bradley Bennett Peterson of Houston, TX, brother Kenneth “Ken” William Peterson of Louisville, Kentucky…and his grandchildren Austin Evans Peterson, Andrew William Peterson and Jake Nicholas Peterson.
In honor of Don, there will be a Celebration of Life at 4pm on Saturday, September 14th, 2024 at Crowder’s Funeral Home at 1645 East Main Street, League City, TX. A reception will follow the service from 6pm to 8pm at Jackie’s Bar and Grill, located at 1053 Marina Bay Drive in Kemah, TX. Food and drinks are provided. Attire for the day is casual, the only way Don would want it.
My good friend you will be missed by many here on earth but I rejoice that we’ll meet again in heaven. You and Peggy have been the kind of friends that though we were miles apart I could pick up the phone and feel we’d just spoke yesterday. Your boys are such a blessing and so special to us. They have really stepped up in your and Peggy’s care. God bless them as they continue your and Peggy’s legacy. We’ll be celebrating your life and friendship on the 14th of September in Kentucky. Love to you and the family! ❤️🙏
It’s with great sadness that learned about Mr. Peterson’s passing. I was introduced to Don thru my oldest sister Becky when I was a rookie rep. Don was such a caring soul and an inspiration. Although I never worked directly with him we would always stay in touch throughout his career in Houston. I’ll always cherish our conversations, he will be missed by many.
Don was and always will be one of my best . He will be missed roll on Big Dog
Fair winds and following seas, Big Dog. See you on the other side, we will bring rum!!…never to be forgotten .
You were bigger than life Big Dog. You and Peggy are very much missed. I can only imagine you are having a grand new adventure somewhere out there. love, Ken and Kelly
We only knew each other for a short while, as we met during the “ROMEO” (Retired old men eating out) lunches. Big Dog always had a story to tell and would laugh at my picking on the other members. So adios, my friend
Anchor where that ocean ends.
Captain Jeff aka Eveready
I had the highest respect for Big Daddy Don. He changed the face of radio in Houston. And he was always a dear friend to me. Heaven got a good one.
Don was always the center of the room and the life of the party. Wish we would have had more time to spend getting to know him. Rest in Peace Big Dog. Love Kay and Al