Bradley M. Peterson

Bradley M. Peterson passed away unexpectedly on April 2, 2026. Brad is survived by his wife, Jan Peterson, his four children, Evan Couturier, Erika Peterson, Lizzie Hall (Aaron), Ellyn Nesbit (Corey), five grandchildren, Christopher, Aden, Emory, Jack and Nellie. He is also survived by sister Barb Peterson, brothers, Blair Peterson (Nancy), Blake Peterson, and nephew Brandon Peterson.

Brad was born in Minneapolis, Minnesota on November 26,1951 to Dona and Harry Peterson. He was raised with strong religious and family values, and attended Catholic school throughout elementary and High School. From the time he was 8 years old, he wanted to be an astronomer, and had interests in reading and science. He also loved music and taught himself to play the guitar as a teenager, which led to him being in bands throughout his life. After high school, he attended the University of Minnesota, where he continued his love of science by majoring in Physics and then attended graduate school at the University of Arizona for Astronomy. It was there that he met the love of his life, Janet Rae Cook, where they had an instant connection bonding over Russian literature. Brad also immediately embraced Jan’s son Evan, who he treated like his own son from the moment they met. Brad and Jan quickly formed a deep unwavering connection and were married within six months.

Brad and Jan moved to Columbus so he could pursue his career as an Astrophysicist. Brad became an influential, world renowned Astronomy researcher and professor. He wrote hundreds of papers on Quasars and Black holes and published books that became college level textbooks including “An introduction to Active Galactic Nuclei.” Brad became a mentor to many graduate level students, helping them pursue their academic careers. Many of these mentorships evolved into life-long friendships that Brad cherished dearly. His passion and expertise led him to new opportunities including serving on committees for NASA, presenting his research, co-authoring papers, and working at Space Telescope. Brad had a deep love of Astronomy that didn’t end with his retirement and he continued to contribute to the scientific community.

After retirement, Brad found more time for his other interests. He extensively explored his passion for music and focused on practicing the guitar and working towards forming a band. He spent hours listening and learning new music, upgrading his equipment, and expanding his musical knowledge. He found great enjoyment in playing on stage and always looked forward to his next gig. Upon encouragement from Jan, Brad joined a CrossFit gym where he found a new community of meaningful friendships. Brad’s top priority was always his family and he truly enjoyed any activity they were involved in. Whether it was a bowling league with his son-in-laws, the family fantasy football league (where he lost in the championship game last season!), cooking dinner and building legos with his grandchildren, or building any piece of furniture that needed assembly, Brad threw himself in one hundred percent.

Brad leaves behind a legacy of compassion, integrity, and boundless love - a life rich in moments that mattered and memories that will never fade. Though his absence leaves an aching space, his presence will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege to know him.