In the Spotlight | Carl Peterson
In our mission to support Central Cass students in the arts, our “In the Spotlight” series aims to showcase alumni deserving recognition.
Carl Peterson | Central Cass Class of 1977
President of Peterson Farms Seed + Lifelong Musician
Positioned stately on the prairie landscape near Prosper, North Dakota, Peterson Farms Seed is destined to meet their mission of helping growers be successful in the production of wheat, corn and soybeans. Central Cass alum, Carl Peterson, along with his wife and business partner, Julie, celebrate 29 years of a business that evolved from the farming roots of his grandparents, Oscar and Josephine (Rust) Peterson, and parents, Ralph and Gwen Peterson.
Carl Peterson’s musical talent aligns closely with his talent and success as a businessperson. He is driven with both. When reflecting on his growth as a pianist, Carl’s eyes water as he recalls Mitzi Moos, a well-known Casselton piano teacher, asking him, “What do you want to play?” Up until this point, he had made little progress in playing the piano. “I owe her a debt I could never repay.” She taught me to play and sing using a chord structure.
Carl has fond high school memories participating in the annual “rag show,” or variety show. According to Peterson, “There was not a sweeter man you’d meet on this Earth than Larry Hedvig,” the Central Cass choir and band director. Under Larry’s instruction, Carl participated in the show from freshman to senior year. “I was blessed with good teachers.”
Peterson participated in annual Fraternity (Alpha Gamma Rho)/Sorority shows while attending Iowa State University. He met his beloved wife, Julie, and they were the co-directors of the shows. As a sophomore in college, Carl contacted Fargo composer, James Ployar, to give him pointers on the challenging band arrangements.
His passion for music continues to this day—participating in the annual Summerfest Variety Show and playing contemporary Christian music with Bethel music ministry. In winter 2023, Carl took part in dualing pianos at a seed conference in Indianapolis—entertaining the conference attendees with country, Neil Diamond, Jimmy Buffet and many sing-a-long favorites.
Carl Peterson’s performances at the Summerfest Variety Shows are always a favorite, including the summer 2024 performance of “Since I Fell For You,” by Buddy Johnson.
“A school the size of Central Cass, you can do everything! You don’t get all of the opportunity in life because eventually you have to specialize. But for now, be in everything! A play? Be in it! Music? Grab an instrument! Play sports! Be in a speech contest!”
Carl and Julie raised three children, Eric, Kyle and Josie. “We told them to follow their own dreams, and they took our word—now scattered around the country along with our six grandchildren.” Aside from Carl’s love for music, he enjoys snow skiing and reading, a hobby instilled in him by English teacher, Beverly Schmitt.
Thanks for sharing your story, Carl!
“In the Spotlight” features Central Cass alum who have excelled in the arts. Do you know a squirrel deserving recognition? Nominate them here!
