Obituary
Guest Book
Richard “Dick” Erick Peterson, 82, of Pine City, NY, passed away peacefully on October 5, 2025, in Corning. Born February 17, 1943, in Elmira, he married Susan L. Loetzer on February 27, 1965, and together they made their home in Pine City for over 50 years. Dick graduated from Southside High School, served in the U.S. Army and reserves, and dedicated 25 years to the New York State Police, where he was recognized as an awarded marksman.
He is survived by his sons, Scot Erick Peterson (John Laffey) of Warwick, RI and Matthew Jon Peterson (Leona Watson) of Corning, NY; granddaughter, Ella Peterson; sister, Elizabeth “Betty” Ragan (Jonathan) of North Greenbush, NY; and his beloved nephew and nieces, Elliot, Taylor, and Blair. He was predeceased by his parents, Erick W. Peterson and Marietta Sherkus.
Dick enjoyed golfing, fishing, woodworking, collecting glasswork and coins, and researching family genealogy. He cherished time with his family, friends, and pets.
In accordance with his wishes, Dick will be cremated at Olthof Funeral Home of Elmira, NY. The family will hold a private gathering to celebrate his life.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Bampa’s House (bampashouse.org) of Corning, NY in Dick’s memory.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
1050 Pennsylvania Ave., Elmira, NY 14904
Memories and condolences can be left on the obituary at the funeral home website.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read moreWhat kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read moreWe'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read moreLegacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreThey're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreYou may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read moreThese free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read moreSome basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more