Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
Mary Peterson Obituary
Mary Stivala
Peterson
Resident of Belmont
1951 - 2012
Mary passed from this world on Saturday July 28, 2012, at home surrounded by her family after a two year battle with cancer. Mary was born in East Palo Alto in December of 1951. She attended St. Albert's Elementary School in Palo Alto, Notre Dame High School in Belmont, and Santa Clara University where she majored in Psychology. Mary went to work for the San Mateo Probation Department after graduation where she had a thirty year career retiring as a supervising probation officer. During her time at the probation department she met her husband Stewart. They had three children, Jeffrey 26, Gregory 24, and Kerry 21. Family was always the most important thing to Mary. It could truly be said that her life was a joyous celebration of life and family. She is survived by her parents Paul and Betty Stivala of East Palo Alto, her brothers, Paul, Steve, and Robert and her sister Jean.
A memorial service will be held in her honor on Thursday August 2nd at 10 am at St. Thomas Aquinas Church in Palo Alto. Donations can be made in her name to the American Cancer Society or to the CORA Foundation of San Mateo County.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Mary Peterson
5 Entries
Vincent Van Dillen
October 23, 2022
She was a great woman and confidant to me almost like a second Mom to me. She got me through a really tough time in my life; hospitalization, family fatigue/drama and life failures. If she could only see how successful and cool I have become she wouldn´t believe it in a million years. I am certain she is with God, Michael, Gabriel and Raphael and the entire heavenly hosts. Sincerely Vincent McNair van Dillen, 713 Chesapeake Ave, Annapolis MD, 21403, 332-215-8535 & (415) 757-7162! Also known as St. Vinnie
Christmas 2010
Gary Peterson
August 3, 2012
Mary i am going to miss you. You made our lives richer and no one made a great thanksgiving dinner like you. You were a very special person and sister-in-law.
Michael Urgo
August 2, 2012
Mary gave us all a beautiful example of sharing the gift of love.
Our hearts are with your family.
Jazmin Caravez
August 2, 2012
Mrs.Peterson, I have no words to thank you for being such a great person a great boss. My parents and I worked with Mrs. Peterson cleaning her home for 15+ years. Something I can say of her is that she loved her country style design. I love being in her home during the holidays because she would always have the perfect set up. Thank you Mrs. Peterson once again for being such a great person we will always remember you. Caravez Family.
Cindy Crowe-Urgo
August 1, 2012
Mary was an amazingly gentle spirit that exuded strength of character and acceptance for others. The world has lost this beautiful person far too soon.
My heart goes out to Mary's loved ones in this time of great sadness.
Sending each of you healing light and love.
Showing 1 - 5 of 5 results
Make a Donation
in Mary Peterson's name
Please consider a donation as requested by the family.
Memorial Events
for Mary Peterson
How to support Mary's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Mary Peterson's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
