David James Peterson

PETERSON, DAVID J.
of Kalamazoo, MI

David James Peterson, age 64, passed away suddenly on April 5, 2021 at his residence. Dave was born October 2, 1956 in Kalamazoo, MI, the son of Clyde and Gertrude (VandenBerg) Peterson, and was a lifelong area resident. He was a 1975 graduate of Loy Norrix and received his Associates Degree in Law Enforcement from KVCC.

Dave made several career changes throughout his lifetime, but he was most recently employed as a bus driver with the City of Battle Creek Transit. In his early years, he was a passionate athlete who enjoyed playing and coaching baseball, football and hockey. Dave was an avid sports fan who especially liked his Detroit Red Wings, Detroit Tigers, Chicago Cubs and his University of Michigan teams. He won many hats from his wife based on U of M and Notre Dame football games. Dave's other passion was animals. Every dog and cat he ever met wanted to play with him and be his friend. He also had a love of WWII aircraft, a love picked up from his father, and many hours were spent at air shows over the years, Dave was always quick with a joke and could strike up a conversation and be friends with anyone. While a large and imposing figure with a deep voice, Dave was really just a gentle, giant teddy bear.

On May 13, 1989, he was united in marriage to Lisa (Hatfield) Peterson, who survives and whom Dave treated like gold. Also surviving are a brother Thomas (Mary) Peterson; a sister Susan Kay Peterson; in-laws, nieces and nephews. Dave was preceded in death by his oldest brother Roger in 1979 and by his parents Clyde in 1986 and Gertrude in 2020. Dave was greatly loved and will be sorely missed.

Per Dave's wishes Cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Dave's life will be held Friday, August 20, 2021 at 11:30am at the chapel at Mt. Ever-Rest Memorial Park South, 3941 S Westnedge Ave, Kalamazoo, MI 49008. Per Dave's request, please dress in casual shorts and t-shirts.

Memorials in Dave's memory may be directed to KOHA - Kalamazoo Optimist Hockey Association.

Please visit Dave's personalized web page to sign his online guest book and leave a condolence or message for his family at: https://www.langelands.com