LeRoy D. Peterson, a resident of Webberville, Michigan died of heart failure late Friday, June 8, 2001 at William Beaumont Hospital, Royal Oak.

Mr. Peterson, 74, was the founder and Chairman of the Board of Quasar Industries, Rochester Hills. He grew up in the Pontiac area and was a World War II veteran, having enlisted in the U.S. Navy at age 17 and then serving in the Pacific theatre in 1944-1945.

Mr. Peterson was employed as a metal model maker for a number of area companies until 1967, when he threw caution to the wind and started Quasar Industries with his wife, Ann. Beginning as a small three man shop, Quasar Industries grew dramatically in the ensuing years to become one of the country’s leading high tech prototype manufacturers utilizing laser technology. The company currently has approximately 180 employees at its two Rochester Hills facilities.

Mr. Peterson led a very active life and pursued many interests, including operating his ham radio, flying and golfing. He was a generous philanthropist, who contributed to numerous charities. He was a member of the President’s Club of Oakland University, the Beaumont Foundation, the Eisenhower Hospital Foundation, the Soaring Society of America, the Forest Lake Country Club and Morningside Country Club. Mr. Peterson will be deeply missed by his family, friends and employees.

Mr. Peterson is survived by Ann, his wife of 52 years. He is also surviveed by his three children, Douglas (Christine), Dianne Peterson, Denise (Frank) Higgins, seven grandchildren and two brothers, Warren and Karl.
A memorial service will be held at 11:00 on Saturday June 23, 2001 at the Lutheran Church of the Ascension in Waterford. In lieu of flowers the family suggests memorials to the Lutheran Church of the Ascension or William Beaumont Hospital.