John William Peterson

John William Peterson, Sr., passed away peacefully on February 4, 2026, at UH Tripoint Hospital surrounded by his loving family. He was born on September 5, 1948, in Cleveland to the late Jack and Dorothy (nee: Zaitz) Peterson.

John graduated from Riverside High School in 1967. A proud veteran, John served in the Navy during the Vietnam War aboard the USS Harwood, an experience that left an indelible mark of patriotism on him. John's work ethic was unparalleled, and following his military service, he led a distinguished career for over 50 years. He had pivotal roles at Towmotor as a Burn Table Operator, until the plant relocated; and at Laketran as a bus driver. Later, he concluded his professional journey with NPK, where he retired in 2005.

John's interests and involvements extended beyond his work. He was a member of VFW Post 2595, the Madison American Legion #112, and Ashtabula Rod and Gun Club. John enjoyed playing pool and watching Westerns at home. He also enjoyed traveling and exploring new places. He frequented his favorite restaurants with his childhood friends, Tom and Gus. However, most dear to John's heart was his time spent with his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Though John may not have liked being the center of attention, he deserves to have his long years of fatherly love honored. John was a man of integrity, kindness, generosity, and love. He has left a lasting impact on everyone who knew him.

He is survived by children, Michael (Donna) Rigo, Suzanne (Paul) Muro, Karl (Heather) Rigo, John (Heather) Peterson, Jr., and Jennifer Peterson; twin brother, James (Pauline) Peterson, Joseph (Marge) Peterson; sisters, Darlene (Rick) Harvey, and Kathy (Dave) Davis; grandchildren Malorie, Stephen, Matthew, Emily, Sara, Cory, Karl, Kelsey, Kayla, Kaeden, Mercedes, Caitlin, Emerald, John III, Joseph, Jordan, Savannah, David, Logan, Penelope, Xavier, Cameron, and Sebastian; great grandchildren, Lisette, Elaina, Lianm, Levi, Raven, Hudson, Weston, Ava, Matthew, Kyland, Amelia, Daylen, Nathaniel, Madeline, 2 on the way; and many nieces and nephews. He also leaves his son-in-law, Dan Schostek.

In addition to his parents, John is preceded in death by his loving wife of 46 years, Lora Peterson; daughter, Lisa Schostek; granddaughter, Dorothy; and sister, Jackie Geizer.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, February 19, 2026 from 5-8PM at Concord Community Center, 7671 Auburn Rd., Concord, Ohio 44077. A Memorial Mass, which will be livestreamed, will take place at St. Mary Catholic Church, 242 N. State Street, Painesville, Ohio on Friday, February 20, 2026 at 10:30AM with an hour of visitation prior, at the church.

John and his wife Lora will be laid to rest together at Riverside Cemetery with Military Honors, in the spring.