Cynthia (Cyndy) “CJ” Peterson, 62, of Wanamingo, Minnesota, formerly of Rochester, Minnesota, died of natural causes on Sunday, March 5, 2017.

She is survived by her sons, Aaron and Michael Thompson; her best friend, Cindy Senjem; her sisters, Diana, Sandy, and Susan; and her brothers, David and Greg.  She is also survived by the many ESL students she taught in Rochester and around the world, by musicians and artists she encouraged and gave a space and voice to, and too many friends and loved ones to count.

Cyndy was preceded in death by her parents, Charles and Doris; and her brother, Larry.

Her family will be greeting friends from 2 to 3 p.m. on Saturday, March 11, 2017, with a memorial service at 3 p.m. in the River Park Chapel at Macken Funeral Home. Following the services at the funeral home, a celebration of her life will be held at 5 p.m. at the Blue Moon Ballroom (formerly the Knights of Columbus) on Highway 14 in Rochester. Let all bygones be bygones, all are welcome. She brought life, light, and love into the lives of everyone she met.  She will be truly missed.

Macken Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences are welcome at www.mackenfuneralhome.com