Michael Todd Petersen

Michael Todd Petersen, age 58, of Austin, Minnesota, passed away on September 27, 2026, at Mayo Clinic Health System in Austin as the result of injuries sustained in a car accident.

Michael was born on September 30, 1967, in Austin, Minnesota, to Donald Jack and Elizabeth Elyce (Baier) Petersen. He graduated in 1986 from Austin High School and went to work at Jerry's Other Place for 22 years before making a career change to be a forklift operator at Hormel Foods for 20 years.

In 1998, on a normal day hanging out on the swinging bridge in Austin, Michael's life changed for the better, for on that day he met the love of his life, Deborah. On May 31, 1997, Michael married the love of his life, Deborah Mae Engel, in Las Vegas, Nevada, at the Monte Carlo.

Michael was a lifelong Minnesota sports fan who especially loved the Minnesota Wild and hockey. He played hockey throughout his younger years and carried that passion with him throughout his life. He was known for his quick wit, great sense of humor, and ability to make others laugh. Michael was a kind, generous man who freely gave his time to those he cared about. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, and uncle who would do anything for his family.

A true jack-of-all-trades, Michael could fix just about anything, and if he wasn't sure, he would at least give it a good shot. He enjoyed playing video games, caring for his beloved dogs and cats, and spending time with those he loved.

Michael is survived by his wife, Deborah Petersen of Austin; his mother, Elizabeth Petersen of Austin; daughters, Lauryn (Gage) Rosenthal of Hastings, Minnesota, and McKena (Ethan Trumpy) Petersen of Fountain City, Wisconsin; grandchildren, Carl Michael Rosenthal and Elaine Claire Rosenthal; brother, D.J. (Julie) Petersen; sister, Mary McGrane; brother-in-law, Tom Engel; nieces and nephews, Jackie McGrane, Alexa Eden, Katie (Kyle) Furniss, Colin McGrane, Connor (Ally Luthe) Petersen, Aubrey (Alex) O'Connor, Maia Petersen, and Josie Engel; along with many other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his father, Donald Petersen, and numerous beloved aunts and uncles.

A Celebration of Life will be held from 1:00-3:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 17, 2026, at the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center. Guests are encouraged to wear Minnesota Wild apparel or colors in honor of Michael's lifelong love of hockey and his favorite team. Worlein-Hoff Funeral Homes of Austin are assisting the family with arrangements.