Peter Clauson Peterson Jr.

Born in Plainfield, New Jersey, he was the son of Peter and Anna Peterson. Peter’s childhood was spent on the homestead farm on Cushing Road with pigs, cows, dogs, cats, chickens, ducks, geese, pigeons and mice--each with a name and considered part of the family. An Eagle Scout and altar attendant, Pete excelled in high school track, wrestling and cross country. After finishing high school, he went to work for his uncle as an apprentice plumber, a job he excelled at for the rest of his life.

Valuing his family’s sense of service to his Country, Pete originally enlisted in the Navy hoping to further his plumbing skills for his eventual return to Plainfield and work with his Uncle Evan’s plumbing company (and to stay out of the Army–Go Navy!). However, the Navy soon realized his full potential and sent him to the Naval Academy.

His career as a Midshipman included running on the track team and cultivating a mischievous spirit the men he’d one day command would come to love. Upon graduation with the class of 1956, Pete married Margaret (Peg) Showalter and served as Admiral’s Aide and Flag Lieutenant before being commissioned as Engineer on the JOHN S. MCCAIN. He commanded the DEALEY (DE-1006) and the RICHARD S. KRAUS (DD-849). Upon returning to port where his wife and children waited, he’d fly the Number 1 flag from the bridge, which meant I Love You. Other than being with his family, his greatest love was standing watch on the bridge.

After a thirty-year career in the Navy, Pete worked for various consultants for Navy projects ranging from inflatable boats for the SEALS and Naval Ship maintenance. He also was a safe boating teacher for the Coast Guard Auxiliary. After moving to Melbourne Beach, FL in 1993, he was named Flotilla Commander where he helped support NASA and the shuttle program. His 25 years with Rotary included one year as treasurer, three years as president and twenty-one as secretary. Famous for Lobster dinners and a Touch of Barbados dinners at St. Sebastian’s-by-the-Sea, Pete served multiple positions for the church. He was a long-time interviewer of candidates for the Naval Academy. After his wife Peg’s death in 2009, he joined a breakfast group where he met and later married Robyn E. Peterson.

Predeceased by his parents, and his wife (Peg), Captain Peterson is survived by his second wife (Robyn), his children, Susan Jillice Gills, and Peter C. Peterson III (and spouses); grandchildren Lyra, Cpl. Raymon Peterson USMC, and Angelina.