Taylor Peterson

Taylor Rae Peterson, 17, of Columbia Falls, “went to be with her Lord and Savior” on Dec. 10, 2012, after a courageous battle with cancer, surrounded by her family at her home. Taylor was a loving daughter, granddaughter, niece, cousin and friend.

Taylor was born July 25, 1995, in Whitefish, to Michelle Koller and Chuck Peterson.

During the last 18 months, Taylor fought cancer with a huge amount of courage and strength. She received love and support from the entire Flathead Valley and beyond.

Taylor loved her friends and family with all her heart. Taylor was an entertainer and comedian for all. She made an impact on anyone she came in contact with. Taylor had an infectious smile and sparkle in her eye that would light up any room. She loved roller coasters, sleepovers and any time she got to spend with friends and family.

Taylor was an honor student at Columbia Falls High School. She was a member of the Columbia Falls High School varsity volleyball team and track team. She received All Conference honors and three varsity letters in volleyball. Taylor also received two varsity letters in track. She was very competitive, and her enthusiasm was hard to miss. Taylor was very proud to be a Wildkat.

During senior night this year for volleyball, Taylor gave this advice: “No matter how hard life gets, always stay positive and keep focused on the bright side and push through. Never give up.”

Taylor is survived by her mother, Michelle Koller, of Kalispell; her father, Chuck Peterson, of Columbia Falls; maternal grandparents Dennis and Lynn Koller; paternal grandparents Richard and Belinda Peterson; and numerous aunts and uncles and cousins, and extended family and friends. Taylor had many people in her life that she considered to be her family, including her best friend, Catie King, and the entire King family.

A memorial service to celebrate Taylor's life will be held at St. Richard’s Catholic Church in Columbia Falls on Dec. 14, 2012, at 3 p.m. A celebration of Taylor Peterson’s life will take place at the Columbia Falls High School gymnasium on Sunday, Dec. 16, beginning at 3 p.m. A potluck meal will follow in the high school cafeteria. People are asked to bring a dish or dessert to share. For more information, call Charlene Sapa King at 250-6652 or Kathy Shaffer Price at 253-3775.