Roger Wayne Peterson, 78, of Shawnee, Kansas, passed away peacefully at home on October 20, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on February 12, 1948, in Owatonna, Minnesota, Roger spent his early years growing up on the family farm. He later moved into town, where he attended high school, played baseball, and earned a reputation for being a bit mischievous. Roger went on to attend St. Cloud State University, where he met the love of his life, Georgia, beginning a partnership that would span 58 wonderful years.

Roger dedicated 35 years of service to his community as Director of Planning and Development for the City of Overland Park, Kansas. Throughout his career, he helped guide the city through decades of extraordinary growth and transformation. His vision and leadership helped shape the roads, infrastructure, and development that defined southern Overland Park, connecting communities and opening new areas for growth. His lasting contributions helped shape the city into the thriving community it is today.

In 2007, Roger retired early to focus on what mattered most to him: family, time spent together, and making memories. He especially enjoyed coaching his granddaughter Shea Sullivan’s softball team, a role that allowed him to share his love of the game and be part of her life in a special way. He also treasured traveling with his wife, Georgia, enjoying the adventures and experiences they shared together.

In 2016, Roger and Georgia relocated to Ocala, Florida, where they enjoyed a new chapter of life before returning to the Kansas City area in 2023 to be closer to family.

Roger is survived by his beloved wife of 58 years, Georgia Peterson; his son, Dain Peterson, of Brooklyn, New York; his daughter, Jana Peterson, and her husband, Cody Beltram, of Mission, Kansas; and his cherished granddaughter, Shea Sullivan, of Mission, Kansas.

Roger will be remembered for his dedication to his community, his love of family, his mischievous spirit, and the lasting impact he made on the lives of those who knew him. His legacy lives on in the community he helped build, the family he loved so dearly, and the many memories that will be treasured for generations to come.

A memorial service celebrating Roger’s life will be held on Saturday, October 24, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at the Grand Pavilion at Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park, 8801 Greenway Lane, Lenexa, Kansas 66215.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing and loving him.