Sally Peterson-Falzone

Sally Peterson-Falzone, a remarkable woman of extraordinary intelligence and compassion, peacefully passed away at Northwest Hospital in Tucson, AZ, at the age of 84. Born on February 22, 1942, in Paxton, IL, Sally lived a life filled with love, learning, and service to others. She was the beloved daughter of Clarence “Gene” Eugene Peterson and Dorothy Lucille Stine, both of whom predeceased her. Sally was a cherished wife, having celebrated 51 wonderful years of marriage to Nicholas Falzone. Their journey together began on May 17, 1975, in Chicago, IL, and was enriched by a shared love for family, extensive travel, philanthropy, and the arts. An accomplished academic, Sally graduated from Paxton Community High School in 1959. She went on to earn her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in speech pathology from the University of Illinois followed by a Ph.D. from the University of Iowa. Her esteemed career as a Professor at both the University of Illinois College of Medicine, Chicago, and the University of California, San Francisco, was distinguished by her presidency of the American Cleft Palate Craniofacial Association and the Society for Ear, Nose and Throat Advancements in Children. Sally's dedication to her field earned her the Honors of the American Speech and Hearing Association, and she was a respected teacher and lecturer across the globe. Even in retirement, she tirelessly worked to plan craniofacial surgeries internationally, continuing her legacy of care and compassion. Sally was known for her profound love for animals, especially canines and for her incredible memory and storytelling skills, which kept family history alive. She treasured family reunions and maintained close connections with her loved ones, friends, and colleagues. Her warmth and wisdom left an indelible mark on all who knew her. Sally is survived by her devoted husband Nicholas Falzone; her loving Aunt Diane Thorstenson; and her cousins Todd Thorstenson, Tanya Judy, Paul Sanders, Joe “Buzzy” Swift Jr., Kelcey LaMar, Margaret Stine, Patricia Peterson, John “Chris” Peterson, Jennifer Johnson, and Kathy Peterson. She leaves behind a legacy of love and a life that will be celebrated and remembered by all who were fortunate to have known her. In memory of Sally, donations may be made to the Paxton-Buckley-Loda Education Foundation, a cause close to her heart. The foundation is located in Paxton, IL, and is dedicated to supporting educational initiatives in her home community. Sally's life was a testament to the power of love, knowledge, and kindness, and she will be dearly missed. May her memory live on in the many lives she touched. Interment plans are pending.