Maj. Richard Allen “Rick” “Pete” Pettersen, ret., 64, of Warrenton, died Sunday, July 13, 2008, on his sailboat in Warrenton, of cancer.

He was born March 26, 1944, in Anacortes, Wash., to Ralph and Priscilla (Allen) Pettersen. His parents preceded him in death.

He married Esther Forbes. She survives, residing in Warrenton.

In 1962, Maj. Pettersen graduated from Anacortes High School and joined the U.S. Army. He served as a combat infantryman in Vietnam, and was a signal corps officer for several years. His military decorations include the Bronze Star Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Good Conduct Medal, Vietnam Service Medal and the Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm. In 1978, he earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from St. Martin’s University in Olympia, Wash. He retired June 30, 1982.

He was active in the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, Seaside Christian Church and the Hayshakers Square Dance Club.

Family members said he loved boats, sailing and cruising.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by a sister and brother-in-law, Linda and John Murphy of Phoenix, Ariz.; a brother and sister-in-law, Hal and Kat Pettersen of Longview, Wash.; a son, Ralph Pettersen of Gig Harbor, Wash.; a daughter and son-in-law, Renee and Curt Carter of Gig Harbor; a stepson, Shane Duckworth and his wife, Kelly, of Montrose, Colo.; a stepdaughter, Kris Richardson and her husband, Ken, of Albany; and seven grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by a brother, Steve Pettersen.

Visitation will be held from 4 to 6 p.m. Wednesday at Hughes-Ransom Cremation & Mortuaries, 576 12th St.

A graveside service with military honors will be held at 1 p.m. Thursday at Fort Stevens Post Cemetery in Warrenton.