Richard R. Peterson, 84, of St. James, NY passed away peacefully surrounded by his wife and loving family on January 15, 2022. Richard was born on April 16, 1937 in Hempstead, NY to Robert and Margaret Peterson. He attended Hempstead High where he ran hurdles on the school's track team. After graduation he worked for Doubleday in Garden City but always had a desire to serve his country in the military. He entered in the Army in 1960 stationed at Fort Dix and was immediately deployed to Germany for the Berlin Crisis offensive policing the Berlin wall in an armored tank. Richard obtained an honorable discharge in 1962 so he can come home to Long island and marry Elaine Biondi, his high school sweetheart. With his skills gained in the military, Richard landed a job at the Long Island Lighting Company as a natural gas customer service technician and union shop steward where he worked till his retirement at age 62. Richard is survived by his love of 67 years Elaine Peterson, their four children, Donna, Ricky, Robert and Deana and their seven grandchildren Alyssa, Ashley, Cameron, Jenny, Sara, Jake and Christopher. A dedicated family man who had always provided for his family never putting himself first. He enjoyed working on his cars, fishing, reading, crossword puzzles, playing baseball and football with his boys growing up and going to dance recitals and soccer games with his girls. But what brought him the most joy later in his life was spending time with his grandchildren with his devout wife by his side. Richard touched so many lives with his quiet demeanor and approachable loveable personality. He will be greatly missed. Rest In Peace "Poppy"

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