Clarence (“Pete”) Alvin Pedersen was born on a farm in Cheyenne County southwest of Arapahoe October 27, 1929.  Clarence was the third of four children.  He had one sister, Evelyn (Pedersen) Darnall, and two brothers, Herman Pedersen and David Ray Pedersen.  

When Clarence was a young boy, his parents, Carl Pedersen and Zella Odessa (Boone) Pedersen, moved their family to a farm outside Arapaho.  Clarence graduated from Arapahoe High School and soon found himself drafted into the army and on his way to Korea. He bravely served in combat. 

A few years after his return from Korea, he met and married Alice (Kuhn) Pedersen of Scott City, Kansas, in 1954.  They had three children:  Liane Pedersen-Gallegos, Janel Pedersen Greiman, and William Carl Pedersen. They were married 14 years.  They had four grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren.

Clarence was a farmer, and also raised cattle, in addition to serving as the Cheyenne County Assessor for 20 years.  He lived independently in his own home in Cheyenne Wells until the time of his death February 21, 2023.  He was 93 years old.

Clarence was known for his kindness and his generosity.  He was modest, quiet-spoken, and hard-working.  He had a deep appreciation for the Great Plains, treasured its wildlife, and loved everything about farming (with the possible exception of certain bugs, weeds, and hail).  He was a true steward of the Earth, taking good care of his land, his cattle, his crops, and his farm equipment.  He lived simply, eschewing material possessions, tirelessly working, and was a devoted, dependable, loving father and a reliable friend.  He enjoyed restoring antique tractors in his spare time, and relished impromptu road trips.

As the years passed, he faithfully honored his fellow veterans, valuing his friendships in the VFW, and participating in providing military honors at veterans’ funerals in the surrounding area. 

He was soft spoken, yet always had a kind word for everyone.  He was a man of character, always ready to listen to another’s way of seeing the world, respecting diversity of opinion, and was appreciative of others’ good intentions even when he might see some things differently.  

His example of strong, quiet integrity will continue to guide his family.  Grandpa Pete will be greatly missed.

Memorial services will be held Friday, March 3, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. at the Grace Lutheran Church in Cheyenne Wells.

Arrangements are under the direction of Brown Funeral Home.