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Richard C. Peterson

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Trinity College

Richard Peterson Obituary

Richard C. Peterson,
M.D., M.S.
SOUTHBURY, CT -- Dr. Peterson died unexpectedly at his home on February 1, 2009. Born in Hartford, Connecticut on August 3, 1923, he was predeceased by his wife, Michele Lorraine Peterson.
Dr. Peterson attended Trinity College prior to receiving his M.D. degree from Yale University School of Medicine in 1948. After graduation from medical school he worked as an intern at St. Francis Hospital from July 1948 to June 1949. While there he met his beautiful wife, Michele Lorraine Peterson who at the time was a student nurse. He served his country as a Captain in the US Air Force. His military career provided the opportunity to be the flight surgeon for the US Air Force Skyblazers, an elite aerial acrobatic squadron.
Subsequently, Dr. Peterson completed his residence in pediatrics at the University of Colorado Medical Center in Denver from 1952 to 1955, where he received his Master of Science from the University of Colorado.
In 1955 Dr. Peterson moved with his family to Stratford, Connecticut and entered into private pediatric practice. Throughout his career he had a profound effect on the lives of countless people whom he reached with a gentle manner and sincere compassion that defined him as a person. The impact of his work spanned three generations, during which time he provided medical care to both the children and grandchildren of his original patients.
A recognized leader in preventative pediatric care, Dr. Peterson founded Stratford's medical well child clinic. For the next 45 years, he served as the lead pediatrician in the clinic and was responsible for the program's development.
Dr. Peterson was on the staff at both the Bridgeport Hospital and St. Vincent's Hospital. He regularly attended the weekly staff meetings where he enjoyed the company of his colleagues and friends.
Dr. Peterson was devoted to the care and well being of his entire community. He selflessly offered his innate talent and ability as a physician to help those in need, further exemplified by his appointment as Primary Medical Advisor to the town of Stratford and the Stratford Board of Health. He held both positions from 1955 until his retirement at the age of 81 in early 2004. In addition, Dr. Peterson served for 49 years as the Medical Advisor to the Stratford Board of Education and in 1995 became an Advisory Board Member of the Town of Stratford School-Based Health Center.
Throughout his life he developed a love of history, nature, and athletic pursuit. As an avid golfer, he enjoyed spending time outdoors, both on and off the course. However his favorite activity was sharing his passion and knowledge of the woods with his children, grandchildren and dog Charlie. The focus of these interests was wildlife, indigenous species of trees and the importance of respect for nature.
Richard C. Peterson is survived by his three children and their spouses: daughter Melanie Barry and husband Robert; son Richard Peterson and wife Linda; daughter Michele Schempp and husband Stephen. He is also survived by his nine grandchildren: Robert, Whitney, and Ryan Barry; Colleen and Emily Peterson; Andrew, Alison, Erin, and Alex Schempp. He is also survived by his two brothers and their spouses: brother Bob and wife Lucille; brother Don and wife Shirley; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his sister Marie Peterson.
Richard C. Peterson was a beloved friend, husband, father, and grandfather. He will be greatly missed by all whose lives he touched throughout his extraordinary life.
A mass of Christian burial will take place on Thursday February 5th at 10:00 a.m. at St. Mark's Church in Stratford. Burial will follow in St. Mary's Cemetery, Milford. Friends may call at the Southbury Funeral Home of Munson-Lovetere, 235 Main St. North, on Wednesday February 4th from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Bridgeport Hospital Foundation, Pediatrics, 267 Grant St., Bridgeport, Connecticut 06610.
To send an online condolence, please visit www.munsonloveterefuneralhome.com.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Charlotte Observer on Feb. 5, 2009.

Memories and Condolences
for Richard Peterson

37 Entries

Nancy Stockwell

October 28, 2024

I remember Dr. Peterson, I was one of his patients, even into early adulthood. He was such a kind and gentle man. Rest in peace, Dr.

Kevin Mello

January 30, 2024

I will always remember you

Kevin Mello

February 26, 2021

I remember doctor Peterson as the person who if it wasn’t for him I would not be here and my family would not exist I was born in 1957 with spinal bifida my mother was 17 years old she was his patient at that time this was rare he was there to help and advise her and help us thru a difficult time god bless him.
Kevin.

Virginia Millington

February 17, 2009

Dear Peterson Family,
I can only reiterate all the wonderful things people have said previously about your father and grandfather. He was a loving, gentle and kind man. I remember when I first brought my daughter to him back in 1979 and later my son in 1981. He was so kind to me when my young husband died five years later in 1986. I loved his wife, Michele, too! They were a great pair. One holiday season, I gave Dr. Peterson some fruitcake that my husband had made from an old family recipe. Dr. Peterson said it was the best fruitcake he had ever eaten! On one visit, a couple of months later, Mrs. Peterson said to me that Dr. Peterson had come into their living room carrying a small plate in his hand and with a sad look on his face announced that it was the last slice of the fruitcake. She said he had enjoyed that fruitcake so much and that each evening had cut off a tiny sliver trying to make it last as long as possible. She and I both laughed over that. I hope and pray that his (and her) reward in Heaven is great. Dr. Peterson provided all of us with a wonderful example of what it means to be a compassionate human being. I will miss him very much.

Sandra Gill

February 11, 2009

My family and I were so sad to hear of your loss.Dr. Peterson will be remembered for his kind gentle manner and unfailing patience with childen and parents alike . Along with Mrs. Peterson's sense of humor and practical wisdom they guided many parents in the raising of happy healthy childen. The Gill Family

Beth Janney Dahl

February 10, 2009

I just heard of the passing of Dr. Peterson from a friend in Stratford. My family and I wish to express our sincere sympathy to your family.

My family moved to Stratford back in 1956. My twin and I were 4 years old at the time. We were fortunate to be among the first patients of Dr. Peterson. Even as little kids we knew what a special person he was.

After several years away from the area, my husband and I decided to settle back in Stratford. When we had our babies, how wonderful it was to have Dr. Peterson caring for them in the same caring, gentle way I remembered from my own childhood.

He will be missed.

Clough

February 9, 2009

To the Peterson children ,we want to send our deepest symphathy we were in Alaska visiting our Son and his family or would certainly have been there . Your Dad was a very special person ,a pillar in this community, he went out of his way to help when the boys were ill ,he was a friend as well. God Bless you all The Clough's

Lois Schneider

February 8, 2009

'There's a pediatrician right across the hall, a Dr. Peterson,' said my obstetrician, Dr. McGarry, when I was first-time pregnant in 1957. Baby boy # 1 was born without complications, and Dr. Peterson became our ever-growing family's 'baby doctor' up through the teen years of each of our five children.

In 1958 -- four days before Christmas -- I gave birth to another boy three months prematurely. He died shortly after, tiny beloved baby, and at three a.m. Dr. Peterson was at my hospital bedside trying to console a grieving young mother with his gentle, compassionate manner.

Our next son was born three weeks early and weighed fewer than five pounds; I was afraid to take him home, but Dr. Peterson said: 'You're not a first-time mother; you have a toddler. You know what to do. You'll be fine.' God bless him for his confidence given. I was fine.

Our infant daughter became jaundiced shortly after birth and had to remain in the hospital for several days. I was distraught at not being able to bring her home, but Dr. Peterson reassured us that she was going to 'get her rosy cheeks back again.' He was right. Years later he made a night time house call to treat her for a high fever, showing his ever-present calm and confidence. He took care of our final two sons with the same interest and concern he'd shown for each of our children.

Dr. Peterson was without equal as a compassionate, caring man who lived out his vocation. We feel blessed to have had him in our lives for so many years. Rest in God's Eternal Peace, dear person.

P Karen Simpson

February 7, 2009

To the Peterson family,

My brother and I were one of the first patients, he had when he came to practice here in Stratford. He was still coming out to see us when we were sick, even after most doctors had stopped making house calls. I remember him with much fondness. He was one of a few doctors who actually talked to you, and listened to you too. He was a gentle, kind, caring man, and I will miss him.

Rene Mamone

February 7, 2009

To The Family of Dr. Peterson;
I first came to Dr. Peterson in 1964 when my son was born, being a first time mother, Dr. Peterson always taught me to be calm and loving to my son. Then in 1969 my son chris was born, and by that time I was an old pro at being a mother. Doctor Peterson was a wonderful person and the best Doctor, I called him any time of day or night and he always called back. There will never be another Doctor like him. I go by the little white house on Main St. and think of the days and nights I visited there. Lots of memories. I will never forget Dr. Peterson. God Bless his family. With sincere sympathy.

Liscinsky Family

February 5, 2009

Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever.
Dr.Peterson certainly accomplished. I first met Doc. Peterson when I needed a doctor for my daughter in the mid-90s but didn't have any insurance and someone recommended the well child clinic at the Baldwin center and from that day one Dr.Peterson became our regular doctor!! When he retired he made sure all of his patients had somewhere to go!
Dr.Peterson will never be forgotten for he was the most wonderful and caring doctor a sick and scared child could ask for!!!

Betsey Stevko

February 5, 2009

To the Peterson family,
I just learned of this very sad news. I was telling my neighbor, a young mother, just yesterday,how blessed my son's were to have your Dad as a doctor. Kind, caring, and compassionate hardly begin to describe this wonderful man. He and your Mom were the perfect team. He will be missed by all that knew and loved him.

Walter Baker

February 5, 2009

We moved from Canada in 1964 to Wakelee Avenue in Stratford. A few days later our very young son fell down the stairs. We were told to call Dr. Peterson who was five houses from us. He insisted on coming to the house which he did within a few minutes. From that moment on, he was the doctor to all of our children, and in turn to our daughter's three children, right up to his retirement in 2004 (forty years).Not only was he an outstanding Pediatrician but he was a GREAT human being and we liked him as much as our children did. To call him a Prince of a Man would be inadequate to describe his skills, compassion and marvellous personality. Although we moved away in 1994, we were kept up-to-date about him by our grandchildren.We were both so saddened ot read bout his death in the online Connecticut Post. We grieve with you, his children, and wish to express our profound sorrow over your loss.
Laura & Wallie Baker, Altoons, Florida

veronika u

February 5, 2009

rip dr peterson he was my doctor from when i was a little girl and was also my mothers . he was a wonderful doctor and i will miss him very much

Scott Prophet

February 5, 2009

I only met Mr. Peterson once while Rick and I went to see him a couple years ago. We stayed there for about a week and he had to be one of the nicest guys I ever met. After he found out that I liked a certain ice cream that we could not get back in Charlotte he seemed to stock the fridge everyday with more making it very evident that I was eating way too much ice cream. For a week there it was like I still had a grandparent and I couldn't have asked for a better one that week. Rick Jr. I am so sorry for your loss and thank you so much for taking me to CT years ago. I thought the best part was getting to visit NYC but turns out the best part was getting to know your dad.

Doreen Neeley

February 5, 2009

To Dr. Peterson's family: Your dad was one of the best doctors around. A very caring and compassionate man. along with your mom they were one of a kind. Our condolences to all of you. The Neeley family

Bryan Jones

February 5, 2009

My condolences go out to Dr. Peterson's family. May God bless and comfort you.

Allison Iancale

February 5, 2009

To the family of Dr Peterson,
My sincerest sympathies on the passing of your father. He was my pediatrician since 1980. I used to remember walking to his office as my family and I grew up in the neighborhood. I'll never forget your Dad's kindness and compassion with everything. And who can forget that fish tank! That was the best going there as a kid. I truly missed him as my pediatrician and hated the fact that when I graduated college, I had to switch doctors... Please know your father will always be remembered fondly by me and my family.
Sincerely,
Allison Iancale

Eileen Smith

February 4, 2009

My mother first took me to Dr. Peterson when I was seven years old. His office was in the "Blake building", and at that first visit he was literally unpacking his medical books and setting up practice! He came to our home on Christmas Day when I was sick, my mother gave him a bag of homemade cookies, and he then wrote my Mother a thank you note for the cookies! Imagine that today! No one ever was a wonderful as Dr. Pete. I took all my children to him, and he was so kind, gentle and compassionate. Who will ever forget his fish tank? When my daughter Laura was so very sick, he came to my home to exam her without me even asking. That was then, and certainly is now, above and beyond the call of duty. Dr. P was without doubt, the best doctor I have ever known, and I presently work for 18. I want to extend my sadness and my gratitude to his children. You children may not know this, but we knew all about you, because to know Dr. P was to know you as well.

Beth R

February 4, 2009

Sincere condolences to all of Dr. Petersons family. It seemed to me he would always be here. He was doctor to me, my brother and sister, we all fondly remember the fish tank, and that little piece of ivy hanging. He was always so calming, especially if you came in, in pain. He will always remain a very fond memory to all of us

Bonnie (Duguay) Penders

February 4, 2009

My family was among the first families who joined Dr Peterson's practice when his office opened in Stratford in 1955. My parents had just moved from Rhode Island to CT so that our Dad (Bob) could work at AVCO. My mother (Eileen) picked Dr Peterson's practice because she was of Irish/Scotch heritage, and she thought he was Irish, too. Being the second oldest in a family of six my remembrance is that Dr Peterson was kind and caring and didn't talk down to kids, but most of all I remember him coming to our house when my three little sisters were all sick (strep), and my mother telling me when I asked why he was coming to our house instead of us going to his office, "Dr Peterson didn't want me to have to dress all your little sisters and take them out in the cold when he knows they're not feeling well." My mother always spoke very highly of his knowledge, abilities, and kindness. God Bless Dr Peterson!

Sandi

February 4, 2009

Dr. Peterson was my Rock of Gibraltar, tending my 2 children.
I always wished he could be my own
primary physician.

Lori Coppola

February 4, 2009

We first met Dr. & Mrs. Peterson 22 years ago when I was pregnant with out first child. A friend had recommended him and right from the start we knew that Dr. Peterson was the right doctor for our children. The love and kindness both Dr. & Mrs. Peterson had for their patients (and parents) was beautiful. My daughtes still talk about how Dr. Peterson would count their toes at every visit and what a wonderful man he was. They never fought me about going to the doctor, they were never afraid. They loved going to see the fish! I will always remember how Dr. Peterson called me at home to check up on my daughters when they were ill or how he would even answer his own phone! It was bittersweet when he retired. We were happy for him to be able to have more time for his family and himself but there will never be another doctor as loving and caring as him. He taught me to be a parent and was always there to listen and help. Though we are deeply saddened by the news of his passing, we know that he is finally with his beautiful wife, whom we also deeply loved. They were a special gift to us form God, angels from Heaven. We know that they are together with our Lord safely wrapped in His arms. We will always remember them. Our thoughts and prayers are with their family. Maurizio & Lori Coppola & Family

Bill Savisky

February 4, 2009

To the Peterson family
My family is truly saddend by the passing of your dad.He delivered me and also my two brothers.My mom was a young nurse at Bridgeport Hospital in the late fiftys and chose Dr. Peterson to be our Dr.At a pretty young age I realized why.I saw him a few years ago when he was retiring and regret not stopping to say THANKS for everything.May you all find peace at this time knowing the LORD said to him Come and find rest loyal and faithful servant.
Bill,Chris,Tim,Nancy Savisky

Marilyn DiCicco

February 4, 2009

To the Peterson Family:
We are truly sorry to hear about Dr. Peterson. He was the best, kindest, and most compassionate doctor around. We will never come across another doctor in our lifetime that even comes close to him. We were blessed to have him as our pediatrician for our 3 children. With sincere sympathy, The DiCicco Family

Lisa

February 4, 2009

Doctor Peterson was the pediatrician for 3 generations of my family. He was a true Small town Doctor. He was one of those people whom you always thought of as being immortal. He will be sorely missed.

Siobhán Burke

February 4, 2009

Dr. Peterson will always be remembered by me and my 4 siblings - all of us were his patients. Over 30 years later, I still remember the fish tank, the great collection of books in his office and how sweet your mom & dad were. My thoughts are with your family.

Past Patient

February 4, 2009

My condolences to his family. He was a wonderful doctor to myself and then to my son until he retired, which was very unfortunate since I still don't think anyone could take as good care of children as he did. I take comfort that he is now with his wonderful wife whom I also remember cleary.

Margaret Davis

February 4, 2009

I’m sorry to hear of the passing of Dr. Peterson. Your father was our [Margaret and Bryan Stewart] pediatrician throughout our childhood. I have very fond memories of his care and empathy during our various illnesses. His gentle spirit with be sorely missed.

Joyce Cervone

February 4, 2009

Dear Melanie, Richard and Michele,
Our hearts are filled with sadness for you and your families. Your dad was the most gentle caring person we have ever known. We were so honored to have him as our family pediatrician. He was an angel right here on Earth and we're sure he will be remembered as that by everyone who was fortunate to know him.

Sharon Ontko

February 4, 2009

What a kind, caring and gentle man!
As a child, I entered his office without fear, which is why when my children were born, there was no question as to who to choose for a Pediatrician.
May your hearts overcome the sadness you are feeling at this time, knowing that he brought so much joy and healing to so many children in his time here, and that he is at peace now in Heaven with your mom.

Cindy Kelly

February 4, 2009

I first met Dr. P. when my son, Jesse was born 29 yrs ago. He always took such good care of my children when they were sick and relieved the concerns of the worried parents. I am forever grateful for this wonderful Doctor being part of our lives. I know he is in Heaven as was an angel on Earth. With deepest sympathy,

Sharon Swift

February 4, 2009

I am so sorry to read of Dr Peterson's passing. I will never forget him telling me that "I was a better Mother the second time!"He was a wonderful man, may he rest in peace.

Sue White

February 4, 2009

Our sincere condolences on the loss of Dr. Peterson. He was a wonderful doctor/advisor to me as a new mother in a new town in 1962. He not only treated my children but my grandchildren as well. He will be greatly missed by all the family.

The Liguori Family

February 4, 2009

To the Peterson Family-

Our deepest condolences. Dr. Peterson was one of those rare individuals you meet in life. How fortunate Stratford was. His grace, manner and professionlism touched so many. His kindness to our family will not be forgotten.

Kathleen Stolz

February 4, 2009

To the Peterson Family and Friends,

This is a sad day-Dr Peterson was the best Doctor around, he will be truly missed by all that knew him. He was always there to help you and your family. He truly took his time with each and everyone of his patients. As a child I was a patient and then my children. To this day he is the only doctor I truly trusted with any medical advice. He is/was a very special man and his wife was a beautiful lady--they worked beautifully together. He had to be the first to put a fish tank in his office and I believe everyone else followed. Such fond memories of going to his office. There will never be a doctor in Stratford with as much Dedication and Devotion to the community as Dr.Peterson. He really cared for the children and families of Stratford. I still drive by his office on Main Street remembering of A Man who helped my family, my children and many others with all types of healthcare insurance and no insurance.He never turned anyone away who could not pay--He truly was a doctor and loved his job. My family,many others as myself will miss Dr Peterson and his wife.
The Chirsky, Schreckengost and Stolz Families

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