Born in Seattle and raised there for the majority of his 51 years (with a few years spent near Columbus, OH), Michael Peterson demonstrated an early passion for community service through his involvement with the Civil Air Patrol's search and rescue efforts. His dedication continued after high school with his enlistment in the U.S. Navy. As a salvage and rescue diver in the Deep Submergence Unit in San Diego, he contributed to aircraft recovery, maintained worldwide submarine rescue capabilities, and engaged in deep submergence research.

After his honorable discharge and marrying his wife (now of 27 years), they moved to Texas, where he briefly worked as a commercial diver. Ultimately, he sought a career more conducive to his new family life and was eventually hired by the Seattle Fire Department. For 22 years, he served the citizens and communities of Seattle during its most challenging times on Engine 27. However, his career ended abruptly with an unjust termination due to his unwavering religious beliefs and values.

Consequently, due to the unlawful mandates, he and his wife were forced to sell everything and seek a more supportive environment, eventually landing in a small town in Alabama. There, he continues his service as part of the Coastal Resources Division in Orange Beach, focusing on wildlife rescue, rehabilitation, and supporting other city programs.