We are deeply grateful to share the story of Owen Douglas Peterson, a beloved member of our Gleeful Choir who passed away on October 6, 2024. Owen’s joyful spirit and unique personality left a lasting impact on all who knew him. In his memory, his sister-in-law, Rebecca Raybould, and brother, Aksel Peterson, have made a generous contribution to JFS, a portion of which will support the Gleeful Choir. The choir, which brings joy to individuals living with dementia and their caregivers, has provided a sense of community and support for many years. For Rebecca and Aksel, supporting JFS is a way to honor Owen’s legacy and ensure that others can benefit from the same laughter and camaraderie he enjoyed.
The Special Qualities of Owen Peterson-Owen was much more than a choir member—he was an exceptional person, defined by intelligence, kindness, and creativity. A gifted writer, he won second prize in the 1964 Seventeen Magazine short story contest at just 16 years old. His sharp wit and clever language persisted even as dementia progressed. One memorable moment came when asked if he had ever been a paper boy. Owen’s reply: “Yes, I was rather crinkly.” His warmth and gentle nature left an impression, with caregivers affectionately calling him “Harvard Boy,” due to his academic background.
A Legacy of Music and Community-Aksel and Rebecca were early advocates for music therapy. Rebecca contacted Emily Christensen, Arts & Aging Coordinator, before the Gleeful Choir was formed, seeking ways to improve the quality of life for her mother, Jean, who had dementia. Jean began receiving private music therapy, and when the choir started on March 13, 2018, both Rebecca and Jean were there.
Over time, more of Rebecca’s family joined. Aksel and later Rebecca’s father, Dick, participated. Dick’s love of music became integral to the choir, hosting rehearsals at his home and writing original songs, including “The Gleeful Choir Recruitment Song,” still sung at every rehearsal. After the passing of Dick and Jean, Owen moved to Utah to receive additional support for his own dementia diagnosis. For the family, the choir became a place of support and connection. As Aksel shared, “The choir is full of wonderful people, both caregivers and loved ones with dementia. Everyone is treated with respect, and it helps me feel not alone in this journey.”
A special memory for Aksel was singing the old Wyoming song, “Why Oh Why Did I Ever Leave Wyoming,” with Owen—one of Owen’s favorites. Music was a source of joy and comfort for them both throughout their journey.
“This family is an integral part of the Gleeful Choir,” said Emily Christensen. “They are always supportive, bringing laughter and joy to our rehearsals. We are forever grateful to Aksel, Rebecca, and their family for all they’ve contributed and will continue to contribute to JFS and the Gleeful Choir.”
Continuing the Support for Dementia Care-Rebecca and Aksel’s ongoing support of JFS reflects their belief in the importance of dementia care. As they noted, “Dementia takes away much of what defines our relationship with loved ones—shared experiences and memories. JFS offers a support network that has truly made a difference in our lives, and we are happy to support it.”
Watch this 2022 KSL News segment featuring Aksel, Rebecca, and Owen:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=05ryB9LtF7s
