Peter Blomquist
July 10, 1946 — November 17, 2023
Peter Marden Blomquist, 77, passed away on November 17, 2023 in Altoona, WI. He was born on July 10, 1946 in Red Wing, MN. In 1970, he married the love of his life, Rhonda Foster and built a home in Esdaile, WI where they raised three children, Janelle, Jon, and Jeff.
Pete began trucking for Smead Manufacturing as a young man and took great pride in his trucks. He remained a driver for Smead for an incredible 40+ years, where he hauled paper with a legacy of safety, dedication, and reliability. He left a wake of laughter and smiles to those he came into contact with along the way. A medical event forced him to retire early from Smead after which he began work part time as a courtesy driver at Eau Claire Ford. His kindness and joy-filled nature touched the lives of many as he enjoyed interacting with his coworkers and shuttle passengers.
He was active at his churches in Esdaile and Red Wing performing pig roasts to raise funds. Pete also extended his heart to the community volunteering selflessly at Luther-Mayo Hospital as part of "Step Force" where he formed cherished friendships.
Among his many treasures in life, Pete found his greatest joy in his grandchildren – Jenna, Isaac, Barrett, and Raegan Blomquist. He adored them beyond measure, dedicating himself wholeheartedly to their lives. Pete delighted in accompanying them to their various activities, relishing moments spent in his convertible, and sharing ice cream, creating cherished memories that will endure for their whole lives.
Pete’s life was defined by his roles as a devoted husband, supportive father, fun and doting grandfather, and a reliable trucker. He had an exceptional gift for connecting with people, effortlessly striking up conversations with friends and strangers alike, leaving a lasting impression wherever he went. He led a life filled with laughter and leaves behind a legacy of love, cheerfulness, and unwavering dedication to his family and community.
Pete was preceded in death by his wife Rhonda, his parents Harris and Lucille Blomquist, parents-in-law Darwin and Bess Foster, and sisters-in-law Constance “Connie” Rieck and Diane Finch.
He is survived by his children Janelle, Jon (Kim), and Jeff (Jamie) Blomquist; grandchildren Jenna, Isaac, Barrett and Raegan Blomquist; sisters Linda "Pinky" (Marvin) Holmstrom and Jonette “Joey” Peterson; and brothers-in-law Gary (Karen) Foster and Richard “Dick” Finch, and many nieces and nephews.
Friends and family are invited to a party celebrating Pete’s life at River Prairie Center in Altoona, WI on Saturday November 25, 2023 with the doors opening (visitation) at 10:00 a.m., a time for sharing stories (memorial) at 11:00 a.m. with lunch to follow. He will be interred in a private burial with family at Rest Haven Cemetery in the Town of Washington.
Cremation Society of Wisconsin, Altoona is assisting the family. Online condolences may be shared at
www.cremationsociety-wi.com
.