Barry Leonard Peterson 68, of Lakewood Ranch, FL, passed away peacefully at home, with his beloved dogs at his side, on June 28, 2014. He was a Veteran of the United States Navy serving in the Seabees as a diver. He was a custom home builder in Western New York and a graduate of Michigan State. He was a member of the Sigma Chi Fraternity, a charter member of the Amherst North Rotary Club, as well as past President of the Builder's Association in Western New York. Barry was a devout Christian and enjoyed serving his church and community. He was a volunteer fireman and EMT for Harris Hill Volunteer Fire Department in Clarence, NY, for Cert Team in Lakewood Ranch, and a past coordinator, along with his wife, of Retrouvaille, of Tampa Bay, FL. He was a member of St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Clarence, prior to moving to Florida in 2003. He was a past member of the Vestry for Church of the Annunciation, where he was also a past warden and treasurer. Barry will be particularly remembered for his jovial spirit, his generosity and his hospitable nature. Devoted and loving husband to Faith N. Peterson; loving father to his children: Andrew (Mary) Peterson, Kristin (Craig) Schreiber and Ashley Peterson; beloved stepfather of Adam J. Cole, Ethan J. Cole, Richard K. Cole, and Catherine E. (Matthew) Moore. He is also survived by his sister, Lynn Peterson, and six grandchildren. He is pre-deceased by his beloved mother and father, Dolly and Leonard Peterson, of Kenmore, NY. Memorial service will be held on Thursday, July 3 at 11 AM at Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Dr., Holmes Beach, FL 34217.
In a sad commentary on our times, I guess, I learned of Barry's passing through this reunion site. Barry and I were "cousins" - really the children of first cousins. His dad Avery and my mom, Phyllis Peterson Dennis, were first cousins. I last saw Barry at the funeral for my grandfather in the early 70's. He was warm and charming, as always. Then much of the large extended family scattered across the country and we lost contact as we lost loved ones. I was comforted to read that Barry had a good and happy life. His obituary says he was a devout Christian, as am I, and because of that faith experience, we can hope to meet again.
Sad to learn of Barry's passing. I remember him from class as having rosy cheeks and a happy smile. Sadly too many from our class have passed way too soon! Rest in Peace, Barry.
Dick Wightman
Notified this A.M. by Jeff Millen about Barry's passinig. He led a full and productive life but passed too early!
Catherine Dennis (Lord)
In a sad commentary on our times, I guess, I learned of Barry's passing through this reunion site. Barry and I were "cousins" - really the children of first cousins. His dad Avery and my mom, Phyllis Peterson Dennis, were first cousins. I last saw Barry at the funeral for my grandfather in the early 70's. He was warm and charming, as always. Then much of the large extended family scattered across the country and we lost contact as we lost loved ones. I was comforted to read that Barry had a good and happy life. His obituary says he was a devout Christian, as am I, and because of that faith experience, we can hope to meet again.
Molly Dibble (Anderson)
Sad to learn of Barry's passing. I remember him from class as having rosy cheeks and a happy smile. Sadly too many from our class have passed way too soon! Rest in Peace, Barry.