Ronald B. Peterson

Ronald B. Peterson, born January 12, 1935 in Patterson, New Jersey to Arthur and Frieda (Boehmer) Peterson. Ronald was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, who passed peacefully at home on May 28, 2025, surrounded by his devoted family. 

Ronald lived a life full of passion, curiosity, and devotion to those he loved. A lifelong enthusiast of all things hands-on and mechanical, he found joy in sailing, building and flying model airplanes, constructing model trains and steam engines, woodworking, photography, and fishing. He was also a licensed instrument-rated pilot and an avid golfer. But more than anything, his happiest moments were those spent surrounded by family. 

Ronald served 2 years in the United States Air Force. In 1955, Ronald met Jean Elizabeth Marschner and declared in that moment that he would marry her—a promise he fulfilled on January 21, 1956. Their remarkable 69-year union was a testament to enduring love. 

He then went on to earn a degree in aeronautical engineering from Parks University in 1959. Soon after he began a distinguished 30-year career at Grumman Aerospace, where he served in executive roles including President of Government Allied, President of Grumman Energy and Executive Vice President of Grumman Aerospace. During that time he was selected to attend the Massachusetts Institute of Technology to participate in the MIT Sloan program where he earned a Master’s of Science in Management. 

Ronald was predeceased by his son, Captain Mark Ronald Peterson, who served in the U.S. Military Sealift Command aboard the Leroy Grumman and his daughter Wendy Lynne, an angel baby. He departs this life survived by his beloved wife Jean Peterson , and their daughter, Kathleen Jean (Peterson) Acker Ed.D. who has had a distinguished career in both the private and public sectors and recently earned her Doctorate in Educational Leadership. 

Ronald leaves behind cherished grandchildren Kimberley (Craig) Smith and Courtney (Edward) Owsinski and 6 beautiful Great Grandchildren Gracie Jean, Sophie Ellen, Parker Ralph, Lillie Ann, Evelyn Jean, Lucas Edward, - with another great grandchild soon to arrive. 

He is also survived by a brother, Clifford Peterson. 

Ronald’s life was a tapestry of experiences stitched together by the family he cherished and the passions he pursued. As a husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, he gave the very best of himself, leaving behind a legacy of strength, laughter, and enduring love. He had the best stories—tales of adventure, humor, wisdom, and heart—that drew loved ones in and left them smiling long after they were told. His journey was full and rich, and though he has left our sight, he will forever remain in our hearts. We are better for having known him—and infinitely blessed to have been loved by him.

Please feel free to share & join us on for a memorial that will be held on August 2, 2025 12:00pm – 3:00 pm at Raynor & D'Andrea Funeral Home, 683 Montauk Highway Bayport, NY 11705