Birk James Petersen's Obituary
Birk James Petersen, 82, collector, restoration craftsman, builder of scale models, and appreciator of old mechanical things passed away Wednesday, November 25, 2015 at UVRMC due to complications from surgery. Birk was born on May 1, 1933 in Axtell, Utah to James Raymond and Vennetta Petersen. Birk married his sweetheart Darlene on September 15, 1953 in Manti, Utah. Their marriage was later solemnized in the Manti Temple.
Birk loved building steam engines, small scale models, and whimsical creations of his own imagination. He loved showing his amazing collection to visitors. Some of Birk's favorite visitors were kids, he enjoyed watching their enthusiasm as they turned cranks, got their hair to stand on end, and dumped out a whole scoop of candy from the steam shovel. He loved handing out slips of paper with his blog to everyone he met. http://birkpetersens.blogspot.com
After high school Birk enlisted in the U.S. Army where he served as a welder and mechanic, stationed at Fort Bragg, North Carolina.
Birk then hired on at PDM, where he worked as a draftsman and engineer for 41 years.
Birk spent more than 30 years as a scout master, influencing and shaping the lives of many boys. He received the Silver Beaver Award as recognition of his service.
He is preceded in death by his wife Darlene, Daughter Diane, and his parents.
Birk is survived by two sons; Mark (Angela) Petersen of Mapleton, and Gail Petersen of Pleasant Grove, three daughters; Joy Petersen of Pleasant Grove, Annette Cooper of Provo, and Liz (Dave) Brady of Saratoga Springs, seven grandchildren, five great grandchildren and sister Nola Monk of Richfield.
The family will be holding a viewing on Wednesday, December 2, 2015 from 6-8 PM at the Edgemont 2nd Ward, located at 555 E 3230 N in Provo, Utah. A graveside service with full military rights will be held on Thursday, December 3, 2015 at 12:00 PM at the Provo Cemetery. Afterwards friends and family are invited to a luncheon at the church, provided by the Edgemont 2nd Ward Relief Society.
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