LANCASTER, SC – Keith Randolph Petersen

Jan 2, 1950- July 31, 2024

Keith Randolph Petersen, age 74, went home to be with the Lord on July 31, 2024, in Lancaster, SC. He is survived by his loving wife, Marlene Petersen, daughter Jamie Stavenger (Chris), stepdaughter Jennifer Cavender (Tod), stepson Aaron Hauk, grandchildren Kendall and Carter Stavenger, Laney Cavender, and many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews.

Keith was born to Oren and Laudine Petersen in Turlock, CA. A graduate of Turlock High School, he attended CSU Stanislaus studying music and conducting before joining the touring musical group, Up With People (UWP). As a member of Cast '72A, he formed lifelong friendships as well as meeting and marrying Donna Petersen, with whom he raised two children, Jamie and Derek. Their family settled in Stockton, CA where he continued his career in banking and finance with Bank of America, Pacific State Bank, and First Baptist Church.

In addition to UWP, Keith took great pride in his musicianship on trumpet and baritone as a longtime member of several community bands, church worship bands, and as the director/founder of the Texas Jazz Band in McKinney, TX. He enjoyed mentoring band students and conducting local youth bands and choirs.

A natural athlete, he excelled and was a fierce competitor in multiple sports. He competed on his college tennis team, in city softball leagues, coached youth baseball and football, and officiated high school football and volleyball. Keith was a red-and-gold-blooded San Francisco 49er fan, a passion he shared with his son, co-owning multiple Fantasy Football teams together. A master of card games, he always enjoyed time around the card table with friends.

Keith reunited with his high school sweetheart, Marlene after 40 years, and they were married in 2012. Living in both Texas and South Carolina, they have enjoyed the last 12 years together traveling, enjoying their gardens, and listening to live music. An avid collector, Keith was always ready to talk autographs, sasquatches, genealogy, old west history, or his favorite TV shows. Known for his upbeat personality and storytelling, he brought levity to any gathering of family, coworkers, or friends.

With a foundation of faith established in his youth at First Baptist Church, Turlock, and his involvement in ministries at First Baptist Church, Stockton, Keith walked in relationship with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

He is preceded in death by his parents, brothers Rick and Bobby Petersen, and son, Derek Petersen. Memorial plans will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Glioblastoma Foundation at  https://glioblastomafoundation.org/get-involved/donate or to the Children's Tumor Foundation at https://www.ctf.org/ways-to-give/.