John Lesley Petterson

John Lesley Petterson, a distinguished journalist and long-time Kansas Capitol reporter, passed away peacefully on December 4, 2024, at Stormont Vail Hospital in Topeka, Kansas. He was 85. John's passing was due to natural causes after living courageously with Parkinson's disease.

Born on January 21, 1939, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, John's life was marked by an unwavering dedication to journalism and an enduring passion for storytelling.

John graduated from Topeka High School and earned a bachelor's degree in journalism from Kansas State University. His storied career spanned nearly four decades, beginning as a reporter for the Topeka Capital-Journal from 1962 to 1967, where he covered pivotal legislative sessions. From 1967 to 1983, he served as the Capitol reporter for the Wichita Eagle and Beacon. In 1983, he joined the Kansas City Star and Kansas City Times, reporting on 37 legislative sessions under the administrations of seven Kansas governors. Known for his insightful and comprehensive articles, John was widely respected by legislators, officials, and readers alike.

Journalism was a family tradition for John, as he followed in the footsteps of his father, C.J. "Jim" Petterson, who also was a Kansas statehouse reporter. Beyond his professional accomplishments, John was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather.

He married Helen Lowrey in 1983, and together they enjoyed a rich life filled with shared passions and family adventures. John is survived by his loving wife, Helen; his sons, James Petterson of Denver, Colorado (wife Jeanine), and Jeff Petterson of Johnston, Iowa; his stepson, Robert Owen of Cambridge, England (wife Francesca); and his grandchildren: Caroline, Jack, Zack, Alexander, and Clara.

Throughout his life, John embraced his passions as an avid backpacker, skilled potter, dedicated supporter of the arts and volunteer. He found joy and inspiration hiking the trails and wildlands of Kansas, Colorado, Wyoming, Utah and beyond. His travels also included memorable trips to Alaska and Europe, which further enriched his adventurous spirit and deep appreciation for nature and culture. He was a longtime volunteer and Board member for Topeka Habitat for Humanity. In 2016, the organization created the John Petterson Lifetime Achievement Award to recognize extraordinary organizational volunteers and leaders.

John's contributions to journalism and the Kansas community left an indelible mark. He will be remembered for his integrity, his love of the outdoors, and the profound impact he had on all who knew him.

In lieu of services or flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Kansas Land Trust,https://www.klt.org/donate  or Topeka Habitat for Humanity, https://www.topekahabitat.org/donate-financially.