David W. Peterson, age 70, passed away peacefully, with his family by his side, on January 5, 2026, at Massachusetts General Hospital after a long and courageous battle with cancer.
David was born on December 14, 1955, in Elmhurst, Illinois, to the late Bette (Edwards) and Arthur Peterson. He was one of ten siblings, growing up surrounded by family, a value he carried with him throughout his life.
He was a graduate of Woburn High School and had a lifelong passion for cars and music. A devoted sports fan, David proudly supported Chicago teams—especially the Bears and the Cubs—while also embracing New England sports after making Massachusetts his home.
Above all else, David loved his family. He was a devoted husband, a proud father, and an especially proud grandfather. He is survived by his beloved wife of 40 years, Dianna (Poole) Peterson; his three sons, Brian Peterson and his wife Gina of Norfolk, MA, Kyle Peterson and his wife Kimberly of Holden, MA, and Jared Peterson and his fiancée Kyra of Merrimack, NH. He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren, Aubrey, Avery, Michael, and Bradley, as well as several nieces and nephews.
Family and friends are welcomed to a celebration of David's life with visiting hours on Monday, January 12th from 4:00pm until 7:00pm at Fay Brothers Life Celebration Home, 1 West Boylston Street, West Boylston. A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, January 13th at 11:00am in the funeral home. Burial will follow in Mount Vernon Cemetery, Church Street, West Boylston.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in David’s memory to Dana-Farber Cancer Institute at www.dana-farber.org/gift
David will be remembered for his strength, loyalty, love of family, and the pride he took in those he loved.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

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