Charles “Chuck” Pettersen passed away peacefully in his home, surrounded by his loving family on Sunday, August 17th, 2025.
Chuck was born in Butte, MT on August 12th, 1945 to Alf Pettersen and Hazel (Givens) Pettersen, he was one of many children. He was born and raised in Butte, MT. He was a man of many trades throughout his life, but was always proud of the time he served in the United States Navy.
Chuck met the love of his life, Sharon Ann Leppanen, and they were married on November 17th, 1968. They proudly raised three children together; Gretchen, Stacy, and Cory.
Chuck had many hobbies, but enjoyed hunting and fishing the most, especially those outings his family joined him on. Chuck and Sharon created a beautiful family together that multiplied in all the best ways. Chuck was better known to this tribe, as “Papa Waldo.” Papa Waldo will be greatly missed by his family and all that knew him. We will especially miss his sense of humor and teasing Grandma “Moose!”
He was preceded in death by his parents, Alf and Hazel Pettersen, brother, Alf “Butch” Pettersen, sisters, Norma Pettersen, Cora Michaud, Isabell Schmidt (Ernest), and Elsye Hatton (Clifford), and great-granddaughter, Zaleah Rae Thornton.
He is survived by his wife, Sharon Pettersen, children, Gretchen (Ty) Miller, Stacy Pettersen, and Cory Pettersen. As well as 5 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren whom he loved very much. He is also survived by siblings and in laws, William (Cheryl) Pettersen, Bonnie Parrett, and Renee Parrett Pettersen as well as numerous nieces and nephews and extended family.
The family would like to thank Stillwater Hospice of Butte, especially Bethany for their care and support.
A Celebration of Life will take place on September 2nd, 2025 at 11am at the Aldersgate United Methodist Church on 1621 Thornton Ave, Butte, MT 59701 and a luncheon will follow.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations or memorials to the Chelsea Bailey Animal Shelter in Butte, MT 59701 where Charles would bring his grandchildren to share his love of animals.
Axelson Funeral & Cremation Services is privileged to care Chuck and his family.
Please visit below to leave a condolence or share a memory of Chuck.
Service Schedule
Celebration of Life
11 AM
Tuesday September 2, 2025
Aldersgate United MEthodist Church
1621 Thornton Ave
Butte, Montana 59701
Service Schedule
Celebration of Life
11 AM
Tuesday September 2, 2025
Aldersgate United MEthodist Church
1621 Thornton Ave
Butte, Montana 59701
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Tressie Malloy says
Sharon and family
We are so sorry for your loss of Chuck. He really was an incredible man and will definitely be missed. May you RIP Chuck
Many prayers to you all as you go through this difficult time
Love
Tress and Jim
Sherri forrest says
Sharon, stacy and family, we are very sorry for your loss. Chuck was a great man always a smile. He will be missed. If we can do anything please let us know. Lovea you mama jean, Sherri and Willie. Prayers and love to you all.
Carol Smith says
I knew Cory ,my condolences to the family god gained another angel
Carol