Barbara Peterson

1942 - 2025

Barbara Peterson, lovingly known as Barb, and Sis, passed away on November 20, 2025 at the age of 83, at Mount Nittany Medical Center in State College, Pennsylvania, surrounded by the love of her husband and children.

Born on March 7, 1942, in Grassflat, Pennsylvania, Barb was the daughter of Michael and Mary Straka (née Saksa). She grew up in a close-knit family and carried that same devotion, warmth, and loyalty throughout her life.

Married on April 22, 1967, Barb was a cherished wife to her husband of 58 years, Harold "Pete" Peterson of Philipsburg, and a loving mother and "Nana" who lived wholeheartedly for her children and grandchildren. Before dedicating herself full-time to raising her family, Barb worked for General Cigar and later for the Philipsburg-Osceola School District. It was abundantly clear that her greatest joy came from caring for her family, celebrating their milestones, and offering constant support, kindness, and encouragement.

She is survived by her husband, Harold, and her four children:

Denise Novak (husband Mike Novak) of Chester Hill, and their daughters Mychaela Knepp (née Novak) and Danae Novak.

Steve Peterson (wife Carrie) of Philipsburg, and their sons Lucas Peterson and Benjamin Peterson.

Paula Danko (husband Pete Danko) of Allport, and their children Allie Danko and Jack Danko.

Michael Peterson, of Philadelphia.

Barb is also survived by her brothers, Mick Straka and John Straka.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her sister, Dorothy Luciano (née Straka).

Barb's life was a testament to kindness, generosity, and unwavering and selfless commitment to family. She will be remembered for so many things, but certainly her gentle spirit and her loving heart. A woman of steadfast faith, Barb was a lifelong member of the Catholic Church, first at Saint Agnes Parish in Morrisdale and later at Saints Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Philipsburg. Barb dedicated her life to creating a loving home for her family. She was an extraordinary cook whose recipes were family treasures-though she'd be the first to say they never came out quite right.

A funeral mass will be held on Saturday, January 3, 2026 at 10 a.m. at Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Philipsburg.

In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations made in her memory to any of the following organizations, which represent causes especially meaningful to her:

Wounded Warrior Project.

Clearfield County SPCA.

Centre County PAWS.

American Cancer Society.