Born on December 12, 1949, in New Ulm, MN, Connie was raised on a farm in Courtland Township, Nicollet County, by her parents, Walter and Florence Arbes. From an early age, she learned the values that defined her life–hard work, humility, kindness, and devotion to others. She attended St. Paul’s Lutheran School and graduated from New Ulm High School in 1967 before pursuing her calling in nursing at Abbott Northwestern School of Nursing, later earning her BSN from Southwest State University.

Connie married the love of her life, Tom Peterson, in 1969. Together, they built a life centered on family, faith, and service, raising daughters, Karie and Kimberly. For 36 years, Connie lived her calling as a nurse at New Ulm Medical Center, caring for countless patients in roles ranging from bedside nurse to Director of Patient Care. Nursing was not just her career–it was an expression of who she was. Her quiet leadership and compassionate heart were recognized with the NUMC Legends Award, an honor she accepted with characteristic humility.

Family was Connie’s greatest treasure. She found her deepest joy in time spent together–long summers at the cabin, holidays filled with food and laughter, and the simple gift of being present. In retirement, Connie and Tom split their time between the Brainerd Lakes Area and winters in Arizona, always happiest when surrounded by family. She rarely missed a grandchild’s event and loved hearing every detail of their busy lives. Evenings often ended with a game of cribbage or marbles with Tom–small moments that meant everything.

Connie leaves behind her devoted husband, Tom; daughters, Karie (Brian) Bruder and Kimberly (Jon) Mueller; grandchildren, Tyler Bruder (friend Morgan Matanich), Morgan Bruder, Emily (Mueller) Knepprath (Brian), and Jacob (Tatyana) Mueller; great-grandchildren, Winry Knepprath and George Mueller; and many nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends who were blessed by her gentle spirit.

A private family funeral will be held in Minnesota, with celebrations of Connie’s life to be held at later dates in Minnesota and Arizona.

Arranements are being completed by Nelson-Doran Funeral Home

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