Andrew J Petersen

Andrew J Petersen, 79, died May 27, 2026. Born February 10, 1947, and raised in Visalia, California, Andrew’s life was marked by motion—of miles traveled, goals pursued, and hands extended to others—always with a steady, generous regard for the people around him. He lived in Fresno, California.

In Visalia, Andrew attended Mount Whitney High School, then continued his education at College of the Sequoias and Fresno City College. Before completing his studies, he began building a career with the United States Postal Service—work he approached with persistence and pride, steadily advancing into management and later earning recognition for his sales accomplishments. He began with the USPS in 1973 and retired in 2002, leaving behind a professional legacy shaped by commitment and forward drive.

Andrew also served honorably in the United States Army as a Green Beret during the Vietnam War. After his service, he was honorably discharged and awarded the Purple Heart in recognition of injuries sustained in combat. After being honorably discharged he took 6 months and backpacked through Europe. That same resolve—quiet, enduring, and deeply purposeful—continued to appear throughout his life in ways both public and personal.

Beyond career and service, Andrew devoted countless hours to helping others through Alcoholics Anonymous, sponsoring and counseling hundreds of people throughout his life. He did everything he could to help save the lives of others. He showed up—again and again—offering time, listening, steadiness, and the kind of encouragement that helps a person believe in tomorrow.

Andrew made life fun. He carried an adventurous spirit and a spontaneous spark, always on the go, always ready to lean into what the day might bring. He loved sports of all kinds, especially golf, football, and boxing, and he enjoyed being an athlete himself—racquetball, running, cycling, swimming, golfing, and even climbing Mount Whitney. Whether watching a game or chasing his next challenge, he lived with a zest that made ordinary days feel larger.

Those who knew Andrew will remember a man who opened both his home and his heart to those in need, who offered forgiveness freely, and who tried—mistakes and all—to be better, because being a good person mattered deeply to him. One of his favorite sayings was, “What other people think of you is none of your business.” It was a line that carried his plainspoken wisdom: live honestly, keep going, and let your life be measured by what you give.

Andrew is survived by his children, Kelli Petersen and Leigh Petersen; his grandchildren, Adam Waller, Halle Petersen, and Hayden Petersen; and his siblings, Marlene Gomes and spouse, Calvin Gomes, and Daryl Petersen and spouse, Richard Head. He was the son of Arleigh and Dorthy Petersen (both deceased).

In remembering Andrew, many will think first of his courage and curiosity, his steady kindness, and the way he could inspire others simply by refusing to quit on them—or on himself. His life stands as a reminder that a person’s truest measure is found in service, in second chances, and in the unwavering choice to help when help is needed.

In lieu of flower to donate to Alzheimer's Foundation of America