In Memoriam: Robert W. “Bob” Petersen Jr.
ILMA mourns the passing of Robert W. “Bob” Petersen Jr., an ILMA past president (1990-1991), respected industry leader and dedicated advocate for the lubricants industry. Petersen died on October 25.
A native of Waterloo, Iowa, Petersen began his career at Northland Products Company in 1982, continuing the legacy of the family business founded by his grandfather, Warren Petersen. Over more than four decades, he held several positions within the company, beginning in sales before becoming territory manager and ultimately president. Alongside his brother, Eric, Petersen helped grow Northland while fostering a company culture built on hard work, innovation, fairness and trust.
Petersen served as ILMA president from 1990 to 1991, contributing to the Association’s growth and impact. His contributions to the lubricants industry earned him numerous honors throughout his career, including recognition as a Lubricants Industry Mover and Shaker and Person of the Year.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Petersen was deeply committed to his hometown of Waterloo. He played an instrumental role in several economic development and revitalization projects, including the Cedar Valley SportsPlex, Waterloo North East Industrial Park and improvements to the Waterloo Regional Airport. His civic leadership was recognized with induction into the Junior Achievement Business Hall of Fame and the Cedar Valley Legacy Award.
Petersen was an accomplished pilot and avid outdoorsman who enjoyed spending time with family and friends at his family’s cabin in Ontario, Canada. Above all, he cherished his role as a husband, father and grandfather.
Petersen is survived by his wife of 38 years, Elizabeth; their children, Robert Louis Petersen (Kayla) and Katherine Beecher Petersen (fiancé Spencer Schuchmann); and his beloved granddaughter, Rose Ann Gertrude Petersen.
Celebration of Life
Visitation will be held on Monday, November 2, from 3 to 7 p.m. at Hagarty-Waychoff-Grarup, 300 West Ridgeway Avenue, Waterloo, Iowa.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, November 3, at St. Edward Catholic Church, 1423 Kimball Avenue, Waterloo, Iowa. Interment will follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery.
Memorial Donations
Memorials may be directed to WDC CourtWorks, Waterloo Youth Hockey Association or a charity of your choice in memory of Bob.
