Jean Ann Peterson, 65, of Owatonna, died Friday, July 18, 2008 at her home. She was born February 11, 1943 in Owatonna the daughter of J. Robert and Geraldine (Ford) Peterson. Jean graduated from Owatonna High School. She received her Library Science degree from St. Catherine's. Following her education at St. Catherine's, Jean moved to New York and worked at the New York City Library while she was working on her master''s degree. She received her master''s degree in library science from New York University. After completing her master''s degree, Jean decided to pursue her dreams. She moved to Ireland and started a business called Newkilber Dog Kennel where she bred, raised and showed Soft Coated Irish Wheatons. During this time Jean also sold hand knitted sweaters that she made. In 1988 Jean decided to return to her home town of Owatonna. She worked for the Owatonna Canning Co. until retiring in 2005. In retirement Jean became very involved in genealogy and spent most of her time researching her ancestors. Through this she became connected to some of her distant relatives previously unknown to her. Jeans health had recently deteriorated due to COPD. Jean is survived by her aunts, Evelyn Peterson of Sun City, AZ, Thelma Peterson of Minnetonka; her favorite cousin, Wally (and Jan) Short of Luck, WI and other cousins and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, grandparents and two uncles, Herb Peterson and Don Peterson. Private family services will be held with interment in Sacred Heart Cemetery in Owatonna. Memorials are preferred to the donor''s choice and can be sent to Kay Duchene at 872 SW 8th St., Faribault, MN 55021.