Bill Lawrence Peters

Bill Lawrence Peters, 86, of Hot Springs, Arkansas, passed from this life February 17, 2013. We lost our beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend after only a four day illness. Please do not grieve for Bill because he led a large and full life. He is with his God and Savior in whom he put all his faith. Bill was born May 25, 1926, in Des Moines, Iowa to L. J. and Mary Frances Johnson Peters. L.J. was a hard-working man with great vision for being ahead of his time. These same traits were passed on to Bill. His word was his bond, and Bill's handshake solidified business both large and small. Bill was successful in road construction and land development, helping with the construction of Interstate 35 and Freeway 235. His hard work and donations played a large roll in the Copper Creek Development of Pleasant Hill, Iowa. His passions were boating and Thoroughbred Racing. His fame was for purchasing, racing and breeding the great mare Mariah's Storm. After consulting with friends, he chose Storm Cat and the coupling produced the great race horse and stallion Giant's Causeway. The film "The Dreamer" was loosely based on Mariah's racing career. Bill was preceded in death by his parents, L. J. and Mary Frances Peters. He leaves behind his wife, Nancy of Hot Springs, sons, Steve Peters and Jay Peters (wife Kimberly) of Des Moines, Iowa, daughter, Stacy Peters Harris Riedel (husband Joshua); five grandchildren, Ryan Peters, Sage Harris, Savana Harris, Lincoln Jay Peters and Lauren Peters. His love and devotion to family and friends made him a rich man indeed. Because of his loyalty and kindness he will never be forgotten and will be missed forever. His memory will be carried on by his friends and family. Donations can be made to the Race Track Chaplaincy of Arkansas or the Permanently Disabled Jockey Fund, P.O. Box 803, Elm Hurst, Illinois 60126. Visitation will be from 5-7:30 p.m. Wednesday at Caruth-Hale Funeral Home. Service will be at 10 a.m. Thursday at Caruth-Hale Funeral Home Chapel. An additional visitation will be from 5-7 p.m. Monday, February 25, at Hamilton Funeral Home in Des Moines, Iowa with a memorial service 11 a.m. Tuesday, February 26, 2013 at Hamilton Funeral Home. Guests may register at www.caruth-hale.com.