Fred served as a sergeant in the 162nd Infantry Regiment during World War I and was later promoted to second lieutenant.
Lee was a reform-minded Republican who devoted attention to removing slot machines from American Legion, Eagles, and Shriner's facilities and even the prestigious Multnomah Athletic Club, all of which Peterson as commissioner and member of the business community opposed.
Among the events of his administration was a visit by the Oregon Zoo's newly acquired elephant Rosy to City Hall on September 26, 1953.
[1] On June 11, 1955, Peterson rode in a car in the Portland Rose Festival Parade with ex-president Harry S. Truman.
Peterson was married to Madeline E. (born July 28, 1898, and died June 8, 1964) until her death, and later to Margaruite "Peg".