Richard Peterson

Went to be with the Lord with his family surrounding him on Tuesday, March 27, 2018, in Battle Creek. Richard was born on June 5, 1933, in Eldred, PA, the son of George and Avis (Rankin) Peterson. He has been a resident of the area since 1972. He was a veteran serving in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War. On November 7, 1953, he was united in marriage to the former Dorothy Hinchy who preceded him in death in 2010. He then married Dolly Dufour on February 14, 2012, who survives. Richard worked for the FAA as supervisor of aircraft mechanics for 33 years retiring in 1988. He was a HAM Radio operator, volunteered at the Kalamazoo Air Zoo giving tours and working in aircraft restoration, Craftsman for Christ, mission trips and Missionary Flight International. He was an active member of Cornerstone Community Free Methodist Church where he served in many capacities. Surviving are his children, Rick (Paula) Peterson of Battle Creek, Diane Myers of Battle Creek, Dennis (Cherryl) Peterson of Houston, TX and Janet (Russell) Bloch of Battle Creek; a stepson, Tom Dufour and a step-daughter, Beth Dufour 9 grandchildren and 5 step-grandchildren; 17 great grandchildren and 1 great great grandchild; a sister, Betty Jean Hope of Denver. He was preceded in death by 2 great granddaughters, Oakley Mae Fuller and Kinsley Markle; a sister and 2 brothers. Richard loved his family, his church and our flag. He was a quiet servant requiring no recognition.  Visitation will be held Monday from 2 to 4:00 p.m. and 6 to 8:00 p.m., at the Richard A. Henry Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, April 3, 2018, at Cornerstone Community Free Methodist Church. Interment with full military honors will be held at Fort Custer National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Cornerstone Community Free Methodist Church. www.henryfuneralhome.org