Stephen G. "Pete" Peterson

Stephen G. Peterson, Sr. of Acton MA and Moultonborough NH, passed away on 7/21/25 surrounded by his loving family. He was 93 years old.
Stephen "Pete" (aka Squire, Brotha Mouse) was born and raised in West Acton Village. He attended Acton Schools where he met the love of his life Patricia Barry of Acton Center. Pete was President of the Acton High School class of 1949 accompanied by Pat as his Vice President. Pete was a natural athlete excelling in all sports an accomplishment he always downplayed. He attended Lawrence Academy in Groton then began studies in Phys. Ed at Boston University where his time as a student was cut short due to enlistment in the Air Force.
As a youth he was an independent spirit, a quality he kept throughout life. He was raised at a time when the Village was bustling with shops, trees lined the streets, and an Ice Cart still delivered ice to the local homes. He'd jump on the Ice Cart as it drove by, ride it through its rounds then jump off to go fishing where he last left his pole down by the river. Ice skates were left under the bridge on Central Street allowing him to skate to South Acton to visit a friend. Pete spoke often of weeding the local farmer's fields to earn a few dimes to go to the movies in Maynard. He learned at an early age the value of hard work.
Pete and Pat married and raised 5 children in West Acton along with dogs, cats, rabbits and a goat. Much to his kids dismay, he took a position as Treasurer/Collector for the Acton Water District in order to keep a close eye on his children from going astray. He stayed at Acton Water for 20 plus years.
The Petersons had an open door policy where neighborhood kids were always welcome, many of whom lived with and became members of the family. They believed where there's room in the heart there's room in the home. This included weekend trips to Lake Winnipesaukee where the family station wagon would be packed to the gills with kids, sleeping bags, dogs and food- the more the merrier. The Lake was Pete's happy place. He helped build the camp then dedicated himself to creating a sanctuary for family and friends to enjoy for years to come. He loved sitting on the deck looking at the ever changing beauty of the mountains and the water. Stories of Pete are legendary, many and varied. At the end of the day he is described by friends and family as the "Best".
Whether at home or the lake, he was the life of the party. Everyone waited for his appearance at annual Halloween parties. Pete loved poker and high low jack and was known to be a boisterous player much to the delight of other players. As a sports enthusiast he was equally boisterous whether watching events on TV or attending children or grandchildren's sports games. He enjoyed a campfire, sang along with the old tunes and was an excellent polka dancer. He had a big heart and a kind spirit.
Pete was quick to help others in times of need. He was a person people turned to for common sense advice and guidance. He was a good listener who quickly sized up situations then got straight to the point with a directness that could be surprising. He didn't hesitate to give a kick in the butt. Ultimately practical (most of the time) he did not suffer fools. He didn't harbor resentment and got over spats quickly. It was amazing to see how patient he could be with those he loved. His social intelligence was remarkable in terms of knowing and remembering names and details about people. He laughed easily and made others laugh with his mixed metaphors but that's a horse of another color.
Pete had a long and remarkable life. He was loved by many and will be sorely missed. We can take comfort in our happy memories of him and know that he made the world around him a better place for all of us.
Pete is survived by children; Juliana Kennedy and spouse Kevin Geery from Acton, MA, Carla from Sonoita Az., Stephen from Maynard MA, William from Acton, MA and Andrew from Shirley, MA, and brother-in-law Raymond Normand of Acton MA, Annette Barry of Acton, MA. He leaves 5 grandchildren; Erik Kennedy and wife Morgan, Ryan Kennedy and wife Dara, Lucas Peterson and wife Devon and great-grandson Emmett, Helena Peterson and Ethan Peterson. He was predeceased by his wife Patricia Barry, siblings Robert, Laura Jane and William. In addition, he leaves many loving nieces and nephews.
There will be a graveside service at Acton Woodlawn Cemetery at 11:00am on Saturday 7/26/25. There will be no visiting hours. Optional to join funeral procession leaving Acton Funeral Home at 10:30am. A celebration of life follows.
Donations may be made in Pete's memory to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude’s Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or to Disabled American Veteran's at https://help.dav.org