Keenin Derek Peterson

Keenin Derek Peterson was born on March 3, 1980, to Vickie (Steven) Munson and Kevin (Nancee) Peterson. He was a bright and talented boy who excelled in academics, athletics, art, and everything else for which he had a passion. He was baptized a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and was a wonderful son, brother, and friend.

Keenin’s early life was cruelly interrupted by mental illness, and the image of that promising young boy slowly faded as his parents fought tirelessly, under difficult circumstances, to help him continue to grow, preserve his independence and dignity, and find fulfillment. Despite the heavy toll that his illness exacted, it never extinguished the spark of ambition that drove him to dream—of meaningful relationships, higher education, a musical career, and countless adventures.

Whenever Keenin called, he relished reliving foundational memories, especially those formed with his family, early childhood friends, and others who were kind to him along the way. The recipients of those phone calls often had the opportunity—before saying goodbye—to send him a pizza, some new shoes, clothes, or other gifts that brightened his day. In the days before his passing, he made several of these calls that, in addition to the usual reminiscing and requests, contained tender and unusual expressions of love, gratitude, and forgiveness.

In his later life, Keenin loved spending time with family, friends, and his animals—especially his cats, which were usually black and almost always mean. He enjoyed playing video games with friends and watched with love (and a measure of justified envy) as his nieces and nephews grew up around him.

Keenin was supported throughout his life not only by loving family, but also by dedicated and talented social workers whose selfless service contributed greatly to his stability and happiness. His family would especially like to thank Rob and Gary, who went above and beyond their responsibilities—spending extra time with Keenin, treating him like a friend, and keeping his family informed about his well-being.

On July 30, 2025, at 45 years old, the Keenin we have all loved, cared for, struggled alongside, and championed, fell asleep peacefully and did not wake. In the same moment, that small remaining spark ignited a flame—and the beautiful boy who had receded into the shadows so long ago reemerged: clear, brilliant, full of promise, and eager to embrace the abundant measure of his new life.

Keenin is survived by his parents, Vickie (Steven) Munson and Kevin (Nancee) Peterson; his sibling: BreAna (Lincoln) Palmer, Brooke (Jesse) Ward, Chase (Taylor) Peterson, Noelle (Jason) Jones, Hayley (Marshall) Reichert, and Destinee (Dan) Plant; his nieces and nephews: Logan, London, Liam, and Bella Palmer; Reese, Roxie, Aniston, Torah, and Heston Ward; Daxon, Nayvie, Kohen, and Ford Peterson; Jettsen, Owen, Cole, and Finley Jones; and Noah Reichert. He is also survived by his grandfather, Lyle Peterson, and many loving and supportive aunts, uncles, and cousins.

He was welcomed home by his paternal grandmother, Corma Peterson; his maternal grandparents, Bonna and Donald Ralphs; his uncles, Brett Peterson, Corey Weaver, and Richard Nourse; and his cousins Cordell, Chad, Amy, and Gianna.

A celebratory memorial will be held at 12:00 p.m. on August 16, 2025, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints meetinghouse located at 2540 N 400 E in North Logan, Utah. Please join us as we honor Keenin and his journey, and RSVP at the following link:

https://forms.gle/2fsxjtWHaSQikfk19

Memories and condolences may be shared by visiting the Guestbook below.