Jason Michael Pederson

Jason M. Pederson, age 43, of Willmar, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, October 7, at his residence from an apparent heart attack.

A private celebration of Jason's life will be held at a later date. Arrangements are entrusted to Peterson Brothers Funeral Home. www.petersonbrothers.com

Jason was born on October 25, 1981, in Harbor City, California, the son of Michael and Linda (Carlson) Pederson. He grew up in Morro Bay, California and in 1993, his family moved to Willmar. In 1999, Jason graduated from Willmar High School. He attended Alexandria Technical College and St. Cloud State College, where he earned a BS degree in nursing. He worked briefly as an LPN in St. Cloud at a group home and day care facility before his ill health situations caused him to retire. Jason enjoyed walking, biking, collecting items and loved being around his family, especially his nieces and nephews.

At a young age (3rd grade), Jason was diagnosed with Muscular Dystrophy (MD) which later attacked his heart when he was in his mid 20's. In 2015, he received a new heart and has been doing well health wise. In early 2025, Jason was diagnosed with severe Type 2 diabetes and other health complications.

He is survived by his mother, Linda Carlson of Willmar; four siblings, Stacey (and John) Vera of Benson, Randy (and Carlota) Pederson of Willmar, Kayla Carlson-Espelien of Benson and Jacob Carlson-Espelien of Willmar; ten nieces and nephews; and one uncle, Rick Carlson of Willmar, besides many friends.

He was preceded in death by his father and his grandparents.