Francis Peterson "Frank" I.

1932 - 2023

Francis Edward Peterson I, 91, of Chesapeake, VA gained his wings on April 17th, 2023 surrounded by his loved ones. Born on January 31, 1932 in Queens, NY, he was the fifth of nine children to James and Irene Peterson. He served in the United States Army in the Korean War, and received numerous military honors and awards, including the honorary Purple Heart. After an honorable discharge from the military, he worked many jobs, including 21 years as a Mail Carrier for the United States Postal Service. He was an avid New York sports fan, even dubbing the nickname, "Yankee," to family and friends. Above all, he was a family man, and his greatest accomplishments were being a husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather to his devoted family.

He is predeceased by his loving daughter, Donna van Rijn; his parents and siblings; and a few special nieces and nephews.

Left to cherish his memory include: his wife of 67 years, Jean; daughter Lisa Powell; sons, Francis (Pamela) Peterson II and Louis (Sherry) Peterson; son-in-law, Robin van Rijn; grandsons, Jason Powell, Francis Peterson III, and Bryan (Liz) Peterson; granddaughters, Shanna (Cody) Tomon, Ashley (Michael) Pate, and Taylor Peterson; six great-grandchildren, Grant, Luke, James, Connor, Harley, and Mary; and numerous extended family and friends.

The family will receive friends from 5 to 8pm on Thursday, April 27, 2023 at Hollomon-Brown Funeral Home, Great Bridge Chapel. A funeral mass will be celebrated at 11am on Friday, April 28, 2023 at Prince of Peace Catholic Church, with the burial immediately following in Chesapeake Memorial Gardens. Condolences may be offered to the family at www.hollomon-brown.com.