Melissa "Missy" Joy Peterson

Melissa (Missy) Joy Peterson, 45 of Indian Rocks Beach, FL passed away on July 7, 2024, peacefully at her home after several months of health issues.  Missy was born in Minneapolis, MN to the late Marcus and Debra Peterson on 3/29/79.  She graduated from Roseville High School in Roseville, MN.   Missy then moved to Beaverton, OR where she lived for 7 years with her first career being a mechanic though that industry was not very accepting to women mechanics.  Missy moved to Richmond, VA in 2004 where she pursued her next career step in the medical field going to school to earn a Bachelor of Science Degree and becoming an Xray Technician.  This is where she the love of her life Sean McKeever and they were married in the Outer Banks, NC on the beach 9/21/12.  Sean and Missy proceeded to move to Indian Rocks Beach, FL in the fall of 2019 because Missy so loved the beach and ocean.   Missy loved to travel with her husband and family; her happy place was any beach.  She also loved animals which took her to many zoos and aquariums with some of her favorite species being dolphins, koala bears, panda bears, whales and the most favorite being Sea Turtles.   

Missy was a very independent and resourceful person and a great friend to many.  She was very protective of the second Gajeski grandchild (Jonathan) and told Grandma Bev, “Put that baby down he doesn’t like you either”.   

Missy is preceded in death by her father Marcus Peterson, Grandparents Ray and Beverly Gajeski, Kenneth and Carol Peterson. Missy is survived by her husband Sean, mother Debra Peterson, Brother Michael Peterson (Allie), her special nieces Mya Peterson and Morgan Peterson, her rescue dog Charlie and many uncles, aunts, and special cousins.    Her great smile and sometimes sarcasm will be remembered by all who knew her.

In lieu of flowers please make donations to:  The Clearwater Aquarium the focuses on Saving the Sea Turtle and marine life at: give.clearwateraquarium.org