Wayne Scott Peterson, age 50 of Shawano, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, January 5, 2023. He was born on October 3, 1972, in Shawano, to Ward R. Peterson, Sr. and Cherie (Erdmann) Peterson. Wayne graduated from Shawano High School in 1991. He pursued his education in the automotive technician area of study at NWTC. His true passion was auto body work and restoration. His other passion was ice racing with his dad and brother in the Fire on Ice Auto Racing Club in Cecil for many years. Wayne won seven track championships within those years. The famous Wayne Peterson was well-known for his rear wheel drive, non-studded champ #39. He enjoyed spending time with his family up north camping, fishing, and attending the Hodag Country Festival every year with his good friend Mike French. Wayne was a great guy with a big heart, who would do anything for anyone.

Wayne is survived by his son, Kyle (Angelina) Niles; three grandchildren, Jason, Logan, and Ava Niles; parents, Ward R. and Cherie Peterson, Sr. of Shawano; two siblings, Ward R. (Tara) Peterson of Shawano, Wendy (Greg) Stuewer of Shawano; nephews, Alex Peterson and Kody Stuewer; nieces, Karah Peterson, Caitlin Stuewer and Taylor Gumieny; and his dear friend, Mike French.

He is preceded in death by his grandparents, Roy and Elaine Erdmann, Ward and Grace Peterson; uncles, Al Erdmann, Walter Erdmann; his aunt, Suzette LaBlanc; and his cousin, Tami Schneider.

Funeral services will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, January 14, 2023, at St. James Lutheran Church in Shawano with Rev. Andrew Zobel officiating. Visitation will be held at the church on Saturday from 9:00 until the time of the service.

Psalm 116: 7-9, 15

⁷ Return unto thy rest, O my soul; for the Lord hath dealt bountifully with thee. ⁸ For thou hast delivered my soul from death. Mine eyes from tears and my feet from falling. ⁹ I will walk before the Lord in the land of the living. ¹⁵ Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints.