David Alan Peterson

David Alan Peterson, age 88, and a Pamlico County resident for 38 years, transitioned out of this world on the morning of December 27, 2025 in the company of his daughter, Veronica and caring staff of the Grantsbrook Nursing and Rehab community, and with support of Hospice of Pamlico County, after enduring physical incapacitation and cognitive decline as a result of a series of debilitating strokes in recent years.

David was preceded in death by his wife, Rose Marie (Cappuccio) Peterson; his son, Jeffrey Alan Peterson; his granddaughter, Samantha Peterson; his parents, Harold A. and Muriel (Kelch) Peterson; and his sister, Marilyn Dorothy (Peterson) O’Rourke. He is survived by his brother, Randall A. Peterson; his daughters, Veronica (Peterson) Lance and Cynthia (Peterson) Dean; and extended family members and friends. Dave’s four-legged companions, Chloe and Lola, have been adopted by their “step-sister” and family.

David was born and raised in Staten Island. He was a proud veteran, serving his country in the United States Coast Guard during the 1950’s and in the USCG Reserves until 1962. His young family relocated from Staten Island to New Jersey. David’s professional journey was marked by a successful career at IBM in his formative working years. Following an opportunity to pursue an early retirement, his life took on more adventurous and varied pursuits, including his move to Pamlico County. Over the years, David’s interests brought him connections to many in several communities.

His interest in public service included elected office and Mayor of Bethlehem Township, New Jersey, and later serving as the Town Clerk for both Vandemere, NC and Arapahoe, NC. He had a passion for the outdoors starting with the Boys Scouts and as an accomplished Eagle Scout, then enjoyed camping and hiking with his young family, and later serving as volunteer Campground Host at multiple National Parks as he travelled extensively throughout the US. Many friends will remember him on the dance floor; Dave was an avid square and round dancer, later finding joy in ballroom dancing. He enjoyed service and fellowship as a Mason, Shriner and Pamlico County Mourner. He also mentored and helped people in many informal capacities.

Dave was fortunate for the series of wonderful senior companions who enabled him to live in his home for as long as possible and then who facilitated quality of life after he needed the support of full time institutional care. Caring and dedicated staff at Grantsbrook and at Pamlico Hospice will remember him for his (mostly) good humor and “Dad jokes”. The family is deeply grateful to all those who contributed to Dave’s support and care through the years. Thank you.

Dave will be cremated at Daniels-Sadler Funeral Home and Crematory. Notes of remembrance can be left on the Daniels-Sadler obituary page below.

A celebration of Dave’s life will be held on Sunday, February 8th, 2026, beginning at 2:00 pm at the Pamlico County Shrine Club located at 2426 NC 306, Grantsboro, NC 28529.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in David’s name to Hospice of Pamlico County, PO Box 6, Bayboro, NC 28515, Phone: 252-745-5171.