David L. Peterson, 82, of Tulsa, Oklahoma, passed away at his home on March 25, 2026. He was a dedicated husband, father, grandfather, colleague, and friend whose kindness and wise counsel will be deeply missed.

David was born on April 22, 1943, in Asbury Park, New Jersey, to Glen and Doreyn Elizabeth Peterson. As a young child, his family moved to Tulsa. He was part of the first graduating class of Nathan Hale High School.

As a young man, David served for two and a half years as a missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Brazil. After returning home, David attended Brigham Young University, where he majored in political science and Portuguese. It was there that he met his future wife, Elaine, who was studying French. They often laughed together about meeting for the first time in a Romance languages course. David and Elaine were married on June 3, 1968, in the Salt Lake City Temple.

Following graduation, David enlisted in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. After serving his country, he attended law school at the University of Oklahoma. David and Elaine returned to Tulsa in 1973, where he began a distinguished career in the legal profession.

After several years in private practice as an attorney, David was appointed as a Special Judge for Tulsa County and later as a District Judge by Governor George Nigh. Later in his career, David served as the Presiding Judge in Tulsa County and as chair of the Oklahoma Assembly of Presiding Judges, earning the respect of colleagues and the community for his fairness, integrity, and dedication.

In retirement, David was deeply involved with the Tulsa Rotary Club, where he co-led the Nicaragua Project. During his tenure, he coordinated efforts with the Nicaraguan government to build over 700 water wells, which today provide clean drinking water to more than 200,000 people in underserved communities.

A devoted, lifelong member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, David served faithfully in numerous leadership and teaching roles, including Bishop, Stake President, Sunday School teacher, and Public Relations Coordinator. He was also involved in promoting interfaith dialogue, as a member of groups such as the Tulsa Metropolitan Ministry, Oklahoma Center for Community and Justice, and the Raindrop Turkish House and Dialogue Institute. He always found great joy in serving others and strengthening his community.

David was preceded in death by Elaine, his beloved wife of 57 years. He is survived by his children: Paul (Heather) of White Rock, New Mexico; Kimberly of Oakland, California; and Shane (Stephanie) of Kennesaw, Georgia. He is also survived by his cherished grandchildren: Allison (Joshua), Ryan, Jade, Kyson, Hannah, Elliott, and Will; his siblings Robert, Alan (Joan), and Richard (Carol); and many extended family members, friends, colleagues, and neighbors who will miss his dry sense of humor, kindness, and steady presence.

Services will be held on Thursday, April 2, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 12110 E. 7th Street, Tulsa, Oklahoma. The viewing will begin at 12:30 p.m., followed by the funeral service at 2:00 p.m. Moore Southlawn 918-663-2233