John M. Peterson, Jr., 85, of Windfall Road, St. Marys, passed away on Saturday, January 25, 2025, at Elk Haven Nursing Home following complications of a fall and battle with dementia.

He was born on October 25, 1939 in Wildwood, NJ, a son of the late John Peterson, Sr. and Mary Louise Souders Peterson.

On October 22, 1966, in Arlington, VA, he married Rita Hnath Peterson, who survives. Together they shared more than 58 years of love, laughter, and marriage. John spent his entire married life prioritizing his wife and his love for her.

John was a graduate of Falls Church High School, class of 1959. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1959-1963 and was a member of Queen of the World Church. He spent the first part of his career running heavy equipment for a construction company, and then moved into the insurance industry, selling insurance for many years. When he wasn’t mowing his grass, he could be found woodworking or taking his Harley for a ride. He delighted in spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. A dedicated, hard working and loving man, John was affectionately known as “Poppy” to all those who loved him.

In addition to his wife, Rita, of more than 58 years, he is survived by two children; Kelly Albrecht and her husband David of Johnsonburg, and John Peterson, III and his wife Tracy of St. Marys; and by his five beloved grandchildren; Cody, Jordan (Justin), Cory (Jasmine), Caitlyn, and Gilbert and by one great-grandson; Olliver, as well as by numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, John was preceded in death by his brother; Leon “Wayne” Peterson.

A Mass of Christian Burial for John M. Peterson, Jr. will be celebrated on Saturday, February 1, 2025 at 10:00 AM at Queen of the World Church, 134 Queens Road, St. Marys, PA 15857 with Fr. Jeffery Noble, Pastor, as celebrant.

Military Honors will be accorded by the St. Marys Servicemen’s Detail.

Family and Friends will be received at the Queen of the World Church on Saturday, February 1, 2025 from 9:15 AM until the time of the mass.

Memorial Contributions may be made to the Elk County Humane Society.

Lynch-Green Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 151 N. Michael Street, St. Marys, PA 15857 is handling the arrangements and online condolences may be offered to the family at www.lynchgreenfuneralhome.com