John James Petersen, 81, of Coral Springs, peacefully slipped away to his enteral reward on July 27, 2021. Born on April 24, 1940 in Brooklyn, New York to Anna Greulich and John Petersen Sr. John was a member of the Marianist community and Broward County Public Schools Teacher’s Union. He was proceeded in death by his sister Louise Pichardo, his mother Anna Greulich and his father John Petersen Sr. He is survived by his wife Claire Petersen, married 39 years; children Mary Ortiz, Timney Petersen and Anthony Petersen; grandchildren, Peter Ortiz and Joseph Ortiz.
John Petersen’s celebration of life will take place at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church in Boca Raton on Friday, July 30th, 2021 at 11am. His internment will follow the mass at Our Lady Queen of Heaven Cemetery at approximately 12:45pm. Instead of flowers, please donate to your favorite charity in John’s name or have a mass said for him at your local parish. The family kindly asks that everyone attending John’s celebration of life wear bright colors for the festive occasion.
John lived his life by sharing his knowledge, extending his hand to those in need, and being a role-model for others. Throughout his career, he led by example. John was recognized by the Broward County Public School System as Teacher of the Year in 1996. John’s passion for teaching showed in and out of the classroom. He believed that all students could learn, no matter their age or background. John knew that each person is unique and has talents and abilities that should be recognized and built upon. He was a fierce advocate for vocational and technical schooling. He spent his life in service to God, his family, and his students.
John was a joyful man. He often shared jokes with his family and focused on the humor in life. Whenever someone was feeling down, John knew exactly how to put a smile on their face. He believed that joy and laughter are good medicine for the heart and soul. John believed you have to learn to live and let go and see the beauty in life. John’s sense of humor had to be experienced to appreciate it. From dancing in the aisles of grocery stores to always causing a scene, his family can attest that life was never dull in his presence.
John had a big heart filled with so much love. He loved his family, friends and his faith. When times were tough, John knew he could pray and speak to God to help him get through it. He enjoyed any activity he shared with his family such as traveling and cooking. Sports played a major role in his life since it taught him teamwork, discipline and perseverance. He proudly shared his love of baseball with his two grandsons. His love for baseball came from his father who took him to Yankee stadium to see many games as a young boy, especially his favorite the Brooklyn Dodgers. He also loved football which he coached in early teaching years. Of all the things John loved, he loved his family most. Day after day, time after time, John continuously showed his love for his family.
John would want his legacy to be a man of humor and generosity. He was easy going and rarely got uptight about anything. Whatever he did, he gave 100%. John organized many events for adults and children in need. The most important event he contributed to was the annual Christmas party which provided local Title 20 children with a gift, refreshments and the joy of singing and dancing throughout the afternoon.
Most importantly, John would hope that we learned not to sweat the small stuff from him, but to enjoy each day and live it the best you know how, for when your time comes you have no regrets.
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