Arlene Peterson, 95, formerly of Lead, South Dakota, passed away peacefully on Monday, February 25, in Rapid City.

Arlene was born on January 5, 1924 in Randolph, Nebraska. She was the daughter of Henry and Emma Bierschenk. Her siblings were Bernadine Matson and Marvin Bierschenk. She lived in Randolph for 12 years before moving with her family to Lead, South Dakota in 1936. Arlene graduated from Lead High School in 1941.

Arlene fell in love with Richard Peterson, also from Lead, and they were married on January 12, 1947. They were married for 67 years before his death in 2014.

Arlene was employed by the First National Bank of the Black Hills. She worked her way up from bookkeeper to teller to loan officer. She was the first female officer in the bank, and she was dedicated to her work.

Arlene worked with several other community members on the beautification of Lead raising flowers and planting them in hanging baskets throughout the community. Arlene and Richard loved to entertain. They particularly enjoyed hosting Christmas holiday parties. Additionally, Arlene bowled, played golf, enjoyed cards, and loved to shop. Arlene and Richard were members of the Whitewood Presbyterian Church.

Arlene was preceded in death by her husband, parents and her siblings. She is survived by several nieces and nephews who love her and will miss her and are comforted knowing she has found peace and is reunited again with Richard.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00am on Friday, March 1, 2019, at First Presbyterian Church in Whitewood, SD. Inurnment will be at 1:00pm in Black Hills National Cemetery near Sturgis, SD.

Arrangements are under the care of the Lead-Deadwood Memorial Chapel in Lead. Online condolences may be written at www.fidler-isburgfuneralchapels.com