David “Lee” Petersen, 72, Roseville, died Aug. 14, 2025. He was born on Jan. 21, 1953, in Reedsburg, Wisconsin, to Bernard and Thelma (Acree) Petersen and grew up on the family farm between Baraboo and Wisconsin Dells. There he met his wife, Linda (Harmel) Petersen, who he married in 1973.

Lee earned three degrees, a bachelor of science in mining engineering from the University of Wisconsin and master’s and doctoral degrees in geoengineering from the University of Minnesota. He had an accomplished career, starting with Agapito & Associates (Colorado) and culminating as a principal engineer at Itasca Consulting Group (Minnesota). His many achievements included work on the Silver Creek Cliff and Lafayette Bluff tunnels on Minnesota’s North Shore, the underground law library at the University of Minnesota, and the LRT tunnel beneath the MSP Airport.

For over 40 years, he was an active member of Mount Olive Lutheran Church in Como Park, where he held various roles on the church council. He humbly shared his faith with others, participating in mission trips to Peru and Haiti, and helping co-found Branch Lutheran Schools of Haiti, now in its tenth year.

He will be remembered for his compassion, empathy and genuine care for others.

He is survived by his wife, Linda Petersen; daughters, Victoria Petersen and Kristie (Dave) Schafer; two grandsons; and brother, Wayne (Pam) Petersen.

A funeral service has been held at Mount Olive Lutheran Church. Memorials may be made to Branch Lutheran Schools of Haiti.