The community of Louisville, Kentucky, is mourning the tragic loss of Keegan Peterson, a beloved son and brother who passed away in a jet ski accident on July 23, 2024. Keegan’s untimely death has left his family and friends in profound sorrow. The news was confirmed through a heart-wrenching Facebook post from his family, which read, “My beautiful, amazing, loving son is now resting in peace. He has been taken from us far too early. I feel empty inside. Please keep my family in your thoughts and prayers.”
Keegan Peterson was born on September 29, 2011, bringing immense joy, light, and laughter into the lives of everyone fortunate enough to know him. As the cherished son of Heather (Hijioka) Yelton and Chris Peterson, and the beloved stepson of Aaron Yelton and Sequoia Peterson, Keegan’s life was marked by love, playfulness, and a deep connection with his family. His bond with his big sister, Kaiya, was particularly special, as the two shared countless moments of creativity and laughter. Together, they produced, acted in, and edited numerous videos, their sibling camaraderie evident in every frame.
Keegan’s infectious spirit and playful nature extended beyond his immediate family. Over the years, he welcomed new siblings and friends into his vibrant world, including Townes, Clarke, Owen, Whitt, and Elise. Each of these individuals became an integral part of his lively and joyous existence. Keegan’s exuberance was evident in his antics, from wild dances to hilarious pranks, and his unmistakable belly laugh brought happiness to all who heard it.
A central aspect of Keegan’s life was his passion for soccer. His dedication to the sport was clear to everyone who watched him play. Whether he was on the field with his own team, Valor, or cheering for Lou City FC and his sister’s Ballard Bruins, Keegan’s love for soccer was unwavering. His dreams were big, with aspirations of climbing the soccer ranks alongside his sister Kaiya, who was especially keen on coaching and training him all the way to Major League Soccer (MLS).
Keegan’s enthusiasm extended beyond soccer to his family’s shared love for the Minnesota Vikings. He, along with his dad and grandpa, formed a devoted trio of Vikings fans, never missing a Sunday game. Their shared passion for football created lasting memories and strengthened family bonds.
The loss of Keegan Peterson has created a void in the hearts of his family and friends. His parents, Heather and Aaron Yelton, and Chris and Sequoia Peterson; his sister, Kaiya Peterson; step-siblings, Townes, Clarke, and Whitt Lanham, and Owen and Elise Yelton; and his grandparents, Mike and Pat Peterson and Yusaku and Sherry Hijioka, along with aunts, uncles, cousins, and countless friends, are left to cherish his memory.
A celebration of Keegan’s life will be held on Saturday, July 27th, at Southeast Christian Church Prospect Campus, located at 12650 W Highway 42, Prospect, KY 40059. The visitation will take place from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m., followed by a Celebration of Life from 4:00 to 5:00 p.m. All are welcome to join in honoring the life of a young boy whose presence will be profoundly missed but forever remembered.
In the wake of this tragic accident, Keegan Peterson’s memory will continue to inspire those who knew him. His life, though brief, was marked by love, joy, and a deep connection with those around him. As the community gathers to celebrate his life, they will also reflect on the impact he made, the joy he brought, and the cherished memories that will endure.
