October 3, 1955 – July 2, 2021
Cynthia Gail Peterson
Cynthia passed away at age 65 on July 2, 2021, in her Seattle home. She was born on October 3rd, 1955, in California to Cecil and Penny “JP” Peterson. Although one of the smallest houses in a beautiful neighborhood of Seattle, Cynthia loved her home of 25 years. Her home was filled with artwork and family mementos while sharing space with her precious kitties, Mirabelle and Mickey.
Cynthia’s home was her sanctuary. Each morning she carried her coffee to the rod iron table outside where she would read the news and enjoy the birds discussing their day as she contemplated hers.
As a young child Cynthia was quiet, yet playful and sometimes mischievous toward her two bigger sisters; mainly the oldest, Janyce. Cynthia would sneak into Janyce’s room and hide some of her treasured possessions.
At times her sisters would hear Cynthia talking with someone in her room. Imaginary friends? She had lots of them and they answered back. Her sisters would sneak around the corner to see who she was talking with. There she was, cross-legged on the floor, in front of a classroom full of stuffed animal students sitting in a semi-circle, paper and crayons in front of each.
Cynthia studied medicine and became a nurse. However, from a young age, she recognized her calling. She went back to university to study education. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies at California State University, Northridge in 1981 and in 1988 she graduated with a Master of Science, Education from Portland State University.
Throughout Cynthia’s teaching career she was recognized as an outstanding, passionate, and unique educator by her peers, supervisors, and parents. The most significant reward Cynthia cherished was reaching the minds and imaginations of each child. She inspired, influenced, supported and encouraged every student through her own creativity and enthusiasm. Eventually her health challenges became too much so she reluctantly retired from the Everett School district after 40 years of teaching.
Cynthia was a self-taught artist. She painted in watercolor, created story journal books for her cousins’ children; and she thoughtfully created her own beautiful and charming greeting cards.
Cynthia will be missed by many. She leaves behind her only remaining family member – her sister Beverly Peterson, her longtime friend and partner Mark Goodman and her extensive family of Peterson cousins. Most notably to her daily life are her cousin Ric and his wife Paula and her Uncle Bud who was like a father to her when her own father passed away.
Cynthia’s close relationship with God has embraced and carried her to a peaceful resting place.
All our love dear Cynthia, forever.
A funeral service will be held at Holy Spirit Lutheran Church in Kirkland, Washington at 3pm on Tuesday, July 20th, 2021.
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