Caryn J. Petersen

Caryn J. Petersen, 65, of rural Minden, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away on Saturday, September 6, 2025 surrounded by family at Kearney Regional Medical Center. Memorial services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, September 19, 2025 at Westminster United Presbyterian Church in Minden with Rev. Sharon Rees officiating. The family requests casual attire be worn. The service will be streamed to the church’s YouTube page. Private family inurnment will be held at the White Hill Cemetery, north of Minden. Memorials in Caryn’s honor are kindly suggested to the family for disbursement to Kearney County 4-H and FFA programs, as well as to the church. Arrangements are under the care of Craig Funeral Home in Minden. Caryn Jean Petersen was born on February 18, 1960, in Minden, Nebraska, to Otto Max Schmidt Jr. and Patricia JoAnn (Patrick) Schmidt. She attended Minden Public Schools and graduated from Minden High School with the class of 1978. On February 7, 1981, Caryn married the love of her life, Boyd Lee Petersen. Together they built a life rooted in family and hard work. To this union they welcomed their son, Jeffrey Lee Petersen (Lauren). Caryn also lovingly raised her niece, Erica Jensen (Kyle), and treated her niece, Patricia Schmidt, like a daughter. Family was Caryn’s greatest joy. She adored her five granddaughters—Hailey, Jenna, Kristen, Sydney, and Jada—and cherished her five step-grandchildren—Jordan, Riley, Cody, Carson, and Megan. She never missed an opportunity to support them, whether cheering from the bleachers, encouraging them in 4-H, or proudly watching them show animals. Caryn was a supporter of the Presbyterian Church in Minden, faithfully watching services online. She was active in 4-H for many years and always found fulfillment in supporting youth. She was happiest on the farm, whether driving to check cows, being on her Kubota tractor shredding or spraying, being the official parts runner and farm uber, or lending a hand wherever needed. She also enjoyed following the whippets and huskers sports. Caryn loved celebrating and decorating for all holidays, especially the 4th of July and Christmas. She spent decades helping with firework sales. Known by many for her kindness, humor, and strong opinions, Caryn never met a stranger. She always had advice to share—whether asked for or not—and gave it with love. Caryn was a committed and dedicated “backseat driver” even when riding in the front passenger seat. Her warmth, generosity, and unwavering devotion to her family and community will be remembered by all who knew her. She is survived by her husband, Boyd; her son Jeffrey (Lauren); her niece Erica (Kyle), her niece Patricia, her granddaughters and step-grandchildren; her brothers Larry Schmidt (Elena) and Chris Schmidt (Christine); her sisters Nancy Pfannenstein and Susie Schmidt; and many other nieces, nephews, and extended family who loved her dearly. Caryn is preceded in death by her parents, Otto and Patricia Schmidt, her sister, Terri Oliver, and her brother-in-law, Arnie Pfannenstein. Caryn’s legacy is one of love, laughter, and hard work. She will be forever loved and deeply missed. Tributes and memories can be shared with the family at www.craigfunerals.com.

Caryn J. Petersen

February 18, 1960 - September 6, 2025