Jerry Peterson

Jerry Paul Peterson, 80, passed away in The Villages of Florida on February 7, 2020.  He is survived by his beloved wife of 57 years, Patricia(Macey) Peterson; sons Matt of Dublin, Ireland, and Troy (Julia Meyerovich) of St. Petersburg, FL., and granddaughters, Alyssa, Kelsey, and Corinne, all in Michigan.  Also surviving are sister Nancy Peterson; niece Michelle Maxson; and nephew Bryan Peterson, all of Grosse Point Woods, MI.  He was preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Margaret Peterson and his son Todd.  Jerry spent most of his years in Battle Creek, MI., He graduated from Battle Creek Central High School in 1957, Hillsdale College and did graduate work at Michigan State University.  While at Hillsdale, he earned eight varsity letters in cross country, wrestling, and baseball, serving as co-captain of the wrestling team his senior year.  Jerry was a teacher/coach at Portage and Springfield schools for over 30 years in education.  His wrestling teams earned many local and state accolades during that time.  Jerry was also athletic director at Springfield High School.  He finished his educational years teaching adult education in Battle Creek Schools.  Jerry also served in the vestry and ushered at St. Thomas Episcopal Church.  Jerry and Pat spent their retirement years as “Snowbirds, “ living the winter months in The Villages.  They had a special companion named Tapper, whom they enjoyed walking every day.  Jerry Played recreational softball there for many years.  Jerry will be remembered for his terrific sense of humor and love of sports.  He was a huge fan of all University of Michigan teams, as well as the Detroit Tigers.  A memorial service will be held 1:00 p.m., on Wednesday, September 1, 2021, at St. Thomas Episcopal Church.  Memorial contributions may be made to the Humane Society of South Central Michigan, The American Heart Association or to cancer research.  Memories and condolences may be left for the family at www.henryfuneralhome.org