Donald D. Peterson

Donald D Peterson, formerly of Berwick, PA, died October 26, 2018 following a brief illness at the age of 88. He was born March 18, 1930 in Berwick, a son of the late Harry and Ruth (nee Harding) Peterson. Don was a graduate of Berwick High School (48), Bloomsburg State College (BS 54), and Bucknell University (MA 58). A member of the Pennsylvania National Guard, he was called up to active duty in 1950 and served during the Korean conflict, rising to the rank of sergeant. Following graduation from Bloomsburg State College, Donald retuned to Berwick and taught at Berwick High School before becoming a guidance counselor at Berwick Junior High School. During this time, he also coached football, refereed high school basketball, and directed the community playground at Ber-Vaughn Park. He was a member of the Elks lodge. After relocating to Harleysville, PA in 1963, he worked as a guidance counselor at Methacton High School until 1986. Donald continued his education completing classwork at Eastern Baptist College, Boston University, Bucknell University, Temple University, and the Pennsylvania State University. He also taught GED classes to inmates at Gratersford State Prison. Don was very active in Christ Lutheran Church located in Kulpsville PA, serving on church counsel for many years. He also coached Little League baseball. After retiring, he moved to Fort Myers FL, where he enjoyed golfing, and in 2016 relocated to Atlanta GA. Football was his passion. He played varsity football at Berwick High for four years and attended Bloomsburg State on a football scholarship. He also played while serving in the National Guard. Don remained a Philadelphia Eagles fan until the end. Surviving Donald is his loving wife of 62 years, Sallie Jayne (nee Holloway) of Atlanta GA. Also surviving are his daughter, Donna of Atlanta GA, son, Richard of St Augustine FL, and three granddaughters: Erica Cvillikas of Conroe TX and Lauren and Taylor Peterson of St Augustine, FL. As well as his parents, Don was preceded in death by sisters: Edith Klingerman, Bernadine Dalberto, and Kathleen Varner and brother, Richard Peterson. A graveside service with full military honors will be held 1:00 PM Saturday, June 1st at Rose Lawn Cemetery. Pastor Chad Hebrink will serve as the officiant.