John D. Petersen

Born in East Aurora, NY, John and his family moved to Staten Island’s Port Richmond neighborhood during his childhood, where his grandparents originally settled after emigrating from Norway.

A graduate of Port Richmond High School, Mr. Petersen proudly served his country in the United States Navy during the Korean War aboard the Aircraft Carrier USS Bennington. Upon his honorable discharge from the service, he worked briefly at S.S. White in Princess Bay before joining Proctor and Gamble’s Port Ivory plant where he worked at numerous positions during his thirty year career.

Mr. Petersen married Gloria (nee Pedersen) in 1958 at Zion Lutheran Church where he attended services throughout his life. Although they divorced, he remained a devoted Father to their four children. He enjoyed camping, fishing, nature, geography, NASCAR racing, the NY Giants and listening to Johnny Cash. John looked forward to attending a monthly men’s breakfast at Zion Lutheran, where he enjoyed the camaraderie of his longtime friends. He also enjoyed celebrating birthdays and holidays with his family.

He is predeceased by his parents, Abraham and Augusta, sister Martha, brother Charles and his son Jeffrey. He is survived by his children, John (Melissa), James, Kathy Perricone (Paul) and three Granddaughters, Olivia, Melanie and Nina Perricone.