Michael Kirk Petersen

Michael K. Petersen.   September 23, 1967 -- July 20, 2025

Michael K. Petersen embarked on his ultimate journey, July 20, 2025.  Born September 23, 1967, in Butte to the union of Harriet Bowden and Richard Petersen.  Michael was raised in Anaconda with his older brother.  Art always played a role in his life with drawing, painting, and ceramics showcasing his talent and creativity.  He inherited his creativity from his mother, who always inspired and encouraged him.

Michael was educated in Anaconda and graduated from Anaconda High School in 1985.  He attended Western Montana College where he studied Art and Elementary Education.  In 1987, he attended Buffalo State University, in Buffalo, NY.  While in college, Michael worked at AWARE Inc. with individuals with intellectual disabilities.  It was initially a job but later became his calling.  The individuals he had the opportunity to support inspired and motivated him.  He returned to Western Montana College and graduated with a double major in 1992.

He went to student teach in Anaconda at Lincoln Elementary and Anaconda Junior High.  His mentor teachers further helped to mold him into a compassionate individual that wanted to give back.  Upon graduation, Michael continued working in group homes and work/day programs.  His drive continued and he worked for the State of Montana for 20 years as a Social Worker and Quality Improvement Specialist.  He enjoyed helping individuals with intellectual disabilities gain independence and achieve their goals, a service Michael found extremely fulfilling.  He gave 110% and brought his endless creativity to the positions, touching the lives of many.

Working with individuals with intellectual disabilities deeply enriched his life, teaching him the value of humanity and appreciation.  It also taught him that life is about celebrating accomplishments, big and small.  Many times, he sat with individuals on his caseload as they left this world to embark on their own ultimate journeys into the next realm.  He refused to let those who had so inspired him, leave this world without the benefit of his loving support, knowing that it was the right thing to do.  These moments forever changed him, ultimately motivating him to become a fierce advocate for those he served.

Michael struggled with Meniere’s Disease and Autoimmune Inner Ear Disease.  These co-occurring disorders challenged him with vertigo, painful ear pressure, and decreased hearing.

Michael was preceded in death by his grandparents, Harrison Creswell Bowden, Betty Powers Bowden and Clara Petersen.

He is survived by his mother, Harriet Tallmadge of Anaconda, MT; brother, Daniel Petersen and his wife Lidia of Las Vegas, NV.  He is also survived by numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.

Michael was undoubtedly greeted by the many individuals he supported and encouraged on their final journeys.  He was also greeted at the Rainbow Bridge by Pugs and Puddles, his faithful companions.

A Celebration of Life will be held on August 1st at the Gateway Christian Fellowship, 300 East 4th Street, Anaconda, at 11 am.   The service will be live-streamed on YouTube channel #6478.

In lieu of a memorial, it was his request that you spend time with someone in need; to be that motivational smile and helping hand for someone with whom your assistance will make a world of difference.

"Do not look down on or judge others, as you do not know the battles they are fighting."

Please visit below to offer condolences to the family or share a memory of Michael.   Longfellow Finnegan Riddle Funeral Home and Crematory have been privileged to care for Michael and his family.