Book of Memories for Richard L. "Rick" Petersen

Condolence From Frank Choppy Essex Catholic '71

Mon, 01 Apr 2013 15:31:35 EDT

May God continue to grant Rick eternal rest in His heavenly home and continue to grant comfort to the Peterson family.

Condolence From Steve Sandler

Thu, 05 Apr 2012 21:04:55 EDT

I don't think of many men as both strong and sweet, but Rick was both. Getting to know him and Carly through the Indian Princeses was a pleasure and an honor; I never heard him speak ill of anyone. Always friendly, outgoing and warm; I don't think he understood how much of an impact he made on those who were lucky enough to meet him. My heart goes out to all 3 of his girls; thank you for being willing to share a little of him.

Condolence From Karen Magliacano

Thu, 29 Mar 2012 22:25:10 EDT

Christie, I was filled with a deep sadness when I heard of Rick's passing. I have never met a kinder, more sincere individual. He welcomed me into camp with open arms from day one, and I never remember him without a smile on his face. He always thanked me for my work and made all of us feel valued. I admired him so much for that. My sons Nicholas and Joseph have wonderful memories of him as well and are so sorry for your loss. Rick acted as if he had known them forever, helped them feel comfortable, and made them laugh every day. It's hard to believe he is gone. I will truly miss him.

Condolence From Barbara Blanchfield and family

Wed, 28 Mar 2012 16:25:28 EDT

Rick was so special and will always stay in the hearts of the many people his life touched and enriched in such a wonderful way. My thoughts, prayers and love are with his beautiful family at this very, very sad time. Heaven is a better place for his being there and I know his mom's embrace will lighten his leaving us, but his spirit will remain and guide us always.

Memorial Candle lit by Elliot Dubowitch

Wed, 28 Mar 2012 16:22:21 EDT

Elliot Dubowitch

Condolence From Guy Casale

Wed, 28 Mar 2012 13:35:32 EDT

My condolences to the family. Ricky was my high school idol. I will never forget him.

Condolence From Donald McNamara

Tue, 27 Mar 2012 20:37:28 EDT

To Christie and family: When I first met you and Rick I was very impressed by your passion, not only for each other, but also for the children you served. This is a seldom observed quality. Rlck was a rare gem. I mean this in the most positive sense. I will miss him and his terrific sense of humor. I will continue to pray for you and your family.

Condolence From Karen Turano

Tue, 27 Mar 2012 18:39:16 EDT

My prayers and sympathy to all of the Peterson family. Over the last 15 yrs of working as a CST secretary at the board office, I would often see Rick. He always had a kind word and an uplifting smile. May the memories of good times and the comfort of friends and family comfort all of you.

Memorial Candle lit by Paula Wynen

Tue, 27 Mar 2012 16:29:13 EDT

The Wynen Family

Memorial Candle lit by Nicholas Stephan

Tue, 27 Mar 2012 14:32:17 EDT

"The Stephan Family"

Condolence From BARBARA GOLDMAN

Tue, 27 Mar 2012 14:26:49 EDT

I am so saddened to read of Rick's passing. He was one of the most warm, caring and thoughtful professionals I encountered in my career at NJ Division of Vocational Rehabilitation. I first knew him at Forest Glen and then at the VEST program. He truly made this world a better place. My condolences to Christie and the girls.

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Tue, 27 Mar 2012 12:55:37 EDT

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Tue, 27 Mar 2012 12:55:35 EDT

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Tue, 27 Mar 2012 12:55:34 EDT

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Tue, 27 Mar 2012 12:55:33 EDT

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Tue, 27 Mar 2012 12:55:32 EDT

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Tue, 27 Mar 2012 12:55:31 EDT

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Tue, 27 Mar 2012 12:55:30 EDT

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Tue, 27 Mar 2012 12:55:30 EDT

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Tue, 27 Mar 2012 12:55:29 EDT

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Tue, 27 Mar 2012 12:55:28 EDT

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Tue, 27 Mar 2012 12:55:27 EDT

Photo shared: Petersen's at Penn State

Tue, 27 Mar 2012 12:54:45 EDT

A football Saturday at Penn State with Daddy

Condolence From Gerry Monigan

Tue, 27 Mar 2012 12:49:52 EDT

At St. Catherine's, Ricky was the most popular boy in the class; we all wanted to be on his team. At Essex Catholic, he was admired by an even larger group of young men; we'd cheer him on to many wrestling victories. He was just the right mixture of heart, brains -- and mischief. It was no surprise he chose the field he did and that he became a star in it. I'm honored to have known him. May he rest in peace.

Photo shared: Middle School Days

Tue, 27 Mar 2012 12:45:54 EDT

My First Experience working with RickyBear

Condolence From Judy Graef

Tue, 27 Mar 2012 12:15:52 EDT

To Rick's Beloved Family What a shock to hear of Rick's passing. I knew Rick when I worked as a teacher and administrator in the Bloomield Public Schools. I cannot tell you something that you already don't know about his fine character, his love of people, his devotion to his special students, his warm smile, his friendly greeting, his willingness to help whenever needed,his pride in his work, his good heart, his obvious love of "his girls". There will never be anyone like him. The word "special" sums it up- a word that permeated his life. We were all so lucky to have known him. My sincere condolences to his beloved family. May peace be with you at this difficult time. Judy Graef

Condolence From Laura Fracasso Lorent

Tue, 27 Mar 2012 10:59:49 EDT

My heart felt condolences to the Petersen Family. I remember Mr. Petersen when I was a third and fourth grader at Forest Glenn School. Even as a child I knew Mr. Petersen was one of the great teachers. From organizing kick ball games at recess to inviting students to buy crafts that his students made in the wood shop, he bridged the gap between students with special needs and typical children. He was inspirational and I count Mr. Petersen as one of the positive influences that contributed to my own career in special education.

Condolence From Lawrence Handel

Tue, 27 Mar 2012 10:46:05 EDT

My thoughts and prayers are with the Petersen family at their loss. Having gone through the grammar and High School years with Ricky, I was able to see what a wonderful person he was. As the years went by, if I ran into him around town, he was always upbeat and a pleasure to reconnect with. May he rest in peace and may his spirit live on through those that he touched throughout his life.

Condolence From Edward Bansch

Tue, 27 Mar 2012 09:42:29 EDT

I'm very sorry for your loss. I knew Ricky as a very young man and a fellow Essex Catholic brother. In later years we grew apart but it was always good to run into him on occasion. Great times were had by us "north enders" when we'd walk down the church aisle wearing our metal shoe taps making a grand enterance annoying the nuns. Also we had lots of fun playing tackle football on Johnsons driving range and the occasional football game with Verona that always ended in a "battle". Rick will be remembered by many people for many things.

Condolence From Heather MacIntyre

Tue, 27 Mar 2012 09:10:12 EDT

Dear Christie, Meg, and CarKey, I am so sorry for your loss. Ricky P was a amazing man who would do anything and everything for anyone. He always knew how to put a smile on your face. Especially when he would call your nickname from across the entire store, stree, house, where ever he was. Our families have such a close relationship and it means more than you know to me. I have always considered you both the sisters I never had. Rick would always be the loudest one cheering on our fashion shows and have the loudest clap in the whole room. He made us feel like may, just maybe, we could make it big in the acting/fashion industry. He was an amazing person and will never be forgotten. I love you all with every piece of my heart. Love always, Heather

Condolence From Jim Pepe

Tue, 27 Mar 2012 08:45:00 EDT

Dear Christie and Family, I am so sorry to hear about Rick. What a wonderful person he was. Since I met Rick, when I first started working in the Bloomfield Schools, I knew he was a very special man! The way he cared about all his kids and spoke of each and everyone of them you could see and feel the love he had in his heart for them. I will always remember the way he was always trying to get new computers from me for the VEST program. I will always smile at the memories of the times we had together. Like the time, at your BMS going away party, I came with that broken all apart computer and he thought he was getting a new one. I got him good with that one! He will be missed by many. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you at your time of sorrow and need. May Rick rest in peace and God bless him and all of you now and always. With all my love and sympathy. Jim

Memorial Candle lit by Leslie Sodano

Tue, 27 Mar 2012 01:39:20 EDT

The Kane Family

Condolence From Beth & Paul Grimes & family

Mon, 26 Mar 2012 22:38:29 EDT

We are saddened to learn of Rick's passing. Once you were introduced to Rick, you became his friend. I don't know of another man who had so-o-o much faith in, and love for, GOD. Rich was all about family and his friends, deriving his happiness by enjoying the simplest pleasures in life. Rick will be truly missed by all who knew him and GOD will surely welcome Rick into his Kingdom!

Condolence From Carol and Henry Korzeniowski

Mon, 26 Mar 2012 21:20:06 EDT

Dear Christie, Meghan, and Carly, Words fail me as I try to express my sincerest sympathy for your loss. I have fond memories of our days at Forest Glen. When I think of Rick the words love and dedication come to mind.... Rick's love and dedication to his "kids" at school but more importantly his love of his wife and his girls. May God comfort you and watch over you at this difficult time. Love, Carol and Hank Korzeniowski

Condolence From Kathryn Flynn

Mon, 26 Mar 2012 21:14:52 EDT

Christie, I'm not sure if you'd remember me, but I volunteered at Forest Glen (about 25 years ago) & I vividly remember you & Rick. You weren't married yet, if memory serves right, but were planning on it. I remember thinking what an amazing couple you were. Even though I haven't seen either of you in many years, I just wanted you to know that I was touched by the way you treated your students, your colleagues, and each other. To say that Rick was a special person really is an understatement. He was the BEST!!! My thoughts & prayers are with you & your daughters. Kathryn (Antonelli) Flynn

Condolence From petey mullen

Mon, 26 Mar 2012 20:28:28 EDT

I,m so sorry for your loss rick was a true gentleman

Condolence From Carolyn Hall

Mon, 26 Mar 2012 20:22:19 EDT

Dear Christie and Family, I am so sorry about the passing of Ricky. I met Ricky through Scott and Lucy and he was always so nice to us. You are all in my thoughts. I pray that the wonderful memories bring you comfort at this tough time. Sincerely, Carolyn Hall

Condolence From The Polledri Family

Mon, 26 Mar 2012 19:51:05 EDT

We are so saddened to hear of Rick's passing. May he rest in peace. His beautiful daughters are a tribute to him and we wish them and Christie the comfort that memories in time can bring.

Condolence From Michael and Janice Tierney

Mon, 26 Mar 2012 19:15:07 EDT

Dear Christie, Carly and Meghan - What a privilege to have known your husband and dad. We go back to bartending days when I was at Tierneys and he was at the Pub. We shared our commitment to kids when we taught together at Forest Glen and BMS and performed any job he needed to get done (or talked us into doing) with the Sunset Classic. He was a motivator, a mentor, a gentlemen, a friend. His ability to create energy and passion for anything he believed in is evidenced by the legacy he has left. Anyone who met Rick remembered Rick. You always walked away from him feeling better for having taken the time to chat. He was an influencial and generous man who never realized the impact his presence made upon all who met him. May the day quickly come that you will feel rich for having known him rather than poor for having lost him. He will live in our hearts....Always, Mike and Janice Tierney

Condolence From Stephen Tobia

Mon, 26 Mar 2012 17:41:21 EDT

May Eternal rest grant unto him O Lord and let perpetual light shine upon him and may he rest in peace Amen. All the Essex Catholic men that went before are all waiting for Ricky with open arms. Go be a kid again and have some fun. See you on the other side. Stephen Tobia. Proud to be a classmate of Ricky. We are class of '71.

Condolence From Caryn Gilbert

Mon, 26 Mar 2012 17:23:57 EDT

My first day at BMS, I was privileged to have met Rick and Christie, as well as the various other staff members who worked with the VEST group. Rick was a special person, whom all the kids adored and depended upon. Having a special needs cousin, myself, I would always volunteer to help out with the VEST kids, during a free period. Rick always had a smile and a story to tell about his wonderful kids. When I came up the the high school, Rick and Christie were up there with the group and I still enjoyed that special time, when I had it. He will be sorely missed by all of us, as he made a special impact on each one of us. Caryn Gilbert

Condolence From Rob and Beth Shabazian

Mon, 26 Mar 2012 16:29:37 EDT

We are so sorry to hear about the passing of Rick. He was a great fan at so many of the wrestling matches and was always there to enthusiastically cheer on the boys. We fondly remember he and Carly in Atlantic City watching the States together. Rick and his family are in our prayers.

Condolence From Frank Choppy, Essex Catholic ''71

Mon, 26 Mar 2012 16:06:23 EDT

My condolences to the Peterson family. May Rick rest in peace, and may God grant him eternal rest in His heavenly home and bring comfort to yous and all.

Condolence From Paula Bonavita

Mon, 26 Mar 2012 15:34:07 EDT

Dear Christie,Meg,Carly, Yesterday I lost my friend,my confidante, and my roommate. My memories of Rick will go on and on in all the laughter. I'll miss my dance partner who did a great two-step. Life won't be the same. He takes with him a piece of my heart. Love, Paula

Condolence From Kathie Browning

Mon, 26 Mar 2012 14:54:56 EDT

I was so sad to hear that Rick passed away. I have fond memories of him when I worked at the Administration Building. He was a great guy and a true gentleman. Sending my deepest sympathy to the family during this difficult time. Peace. Kathie Browning

Condolence From Mary and Colin MacIntyre

Mon, 26 Mar 2012 12:59:18 EDT

Dear Christie, Meg, and Carly, Just wanted to say that we w Over the past years when our kids were growing up together, we developed a very close friendship that we will never forget. Remember the good times--all the shows the kids performed on Hillcrest Terrace, all of us piling into the "blue van" going to Fuddruckers, the card games, Super Bowl parties, birthday parties, fun times at LBI, final four get togethers with Barbara and Bobby, etc. Rick was a unique individual and always made you feel special. Christie, Meg, and Carly, we are here for you now and forever. Rick, you will be missed!

Condolence From Nancy Hadley Andrews

Mon, 26 Mar 2012 12:47:57 EDT

Dear Christie & Family - I was shocked to hear of Rick's passing. He is one of my favorite memories of BMS - always greeted me with a smile & loved to stop & chat. My heartfelt thoughts & prayers are with you.

Condolence From Michael Myers

Mon, 26 Mar 2012 12:45:04 EDT

Sincerest condolences to the Petersen family. Rick touched many lives, and it was a privilege to have worked with him in coordinating services for his students at Northwest Essex in Montclair. Michael Myers Catholic Charities Newark

Condolence From Robert Lombardy

Mon, 26 Mar 2012 12:33:52 EDT

There were many qualities about Rick that I admired. The one that comes to me first, is that Rick was one of the very few people I know, that would always have a good thing to say about who he was talking too and others around him. In the world that we live in today, envy, jealousy, seem to prevent many from saying anything good about others. Not Rick. Whenever we talked, he would always have good things to say about you, about people we both knew, and was always wiling to pass along a story that he had heard from someone which would make a person feel good about themselves. He would tell people whenever he could how much he appreciated having them as a friend and a co-worker. I am glad I had the chance to say that right back to him many times, while he was able to appreciate it. Quite simply, Rick was a "nice guy" to my family, to me, and all who worked with him in Bloomfield as well as the Essex Fells Recreation Department summer staff. He will be missed by all those whose lives he touched. If I know Rick, right now he is on that perfect fairway somewhere, probably playing with St. Peter, and wondering if he should lay up or go for the green.

Story shared: A Very Special Person

Mon, 26 Mar 2012 12:30:08 EDT

Rick was a very special person and touched the hearts and lives of so many during his years of teaching, coaching and fund raising! His early death must be because God needed a very special angel! May he rest in peace! Thoughts and prayers go out to his family, friends and peers! With love from The Garner Family

Condolence From Rae Ann Allora

Mon, 26 Mar 2012 12:22:51 EDT

Christie and family- My heartfelt and sincere sympathy goes out to you at this sad time. I have so many fun memories of Rick - especially from our years at Forest Glen. His spirit had a luminescence that brightened up everywhere he went. He truly loved the "kids" and always had a smile for everyone. It was a privilege to have known him and you all are in my thoughts and prayers.

Condolence From Lori Fusaro

Mon, 26 Mar 2012 11:38:08 EDT

Christie and Family, My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. I will remember the nice times with Rick and seeing his smiling face as I would reach the finish line at the Sunset Classic. He will truly be missed. Sincerely, Lori (Bucciarelli) Fusaro

Condolence From Michael Schilare

Mon, 26 Mar 2012 10:34:09 EDT

Christie and Family, My Condolences go out to you and your two daughters. I remember when first meeting Rick, how proud he was when speaking of his daughters and their respective accomplishments. He was the Consumate Gentleman with a personality larger than life. He was just as proud of all the students he taught or coached throughout the years. Boasting of their achievements and special character traits. He will be missed by students and staff alike.

Condolence From Joanne Cecere

Mon, 26 Mar 2012 09:31:11 EDT

Please accept my condolences on the passing of Mr. Petersen. My daughter Jennifer attended Forest Glen School in Bloomfield....and he was a favorite of hers. He was so kind...she just called me from the bus to tell me...she was quite upset. May God Bless......it takes a special person to teach our special needs children...I thank him. Joanne and Jennifer Cecere

Condolence From Chris Jennings

Mon, 26 Mar 2012 09:25:15 EDT

Christie and Family, My sincere condolences on your loss. Rick was a larger than life personality whose passion for life was obvious as soon as you met him. He always spoke of his family with so much love and passion. Bloomfield was lucky to have him.

Condolence From Josephine Rodriguez

Mon, 26 Mar 2012 09:19:15 EDT

Dear Christie, We all have lost a very special person. The years at the BMS were never the same when they moved you guys to the HS. I always respected and loved Rick..I missed him when he left BMS and now I will miss him more...you and your family are in my prayers..Rick I will miss you and remember you always.

Condolence From Betty Salerno

Mon, 26 Mar 2012 08:42:18 EDT

Dear Christie, My sympathy to you and your daughters. I remember my two years at Forest Glen; it was a wonderful experience working with Rick. I am so sorry he is gone.

Condolence From Anne, Skip, Keith, and Justin Maher

Mon, 26 Mar 2012 08:30:04 EDT

Dear Christie, Meg and Carly There are no words to express our sorrow, everyone's sorrow. We will always have our memories of the "good old days" with our kids putting on shows in Mary and Colin's basement and truly must focus on the fun times. We will keep you in our thoughts and prayers and always in our hearts.

Condolence From John Shanagher

Sun, 25 Mar 2012 23:04:25 EDT

I've known Rick since the old days at the Town Pub. He and I shared an absolutely horrible class at state...the only class I ever failed! He was a presence wherever he went. Rick's love and respect for the special children he taught and for the people lucky enough to have known and worked with him will never be forgotten. You are all in my prayers.

Condolence From Jennifer Khoury (Curcio)

Sun, 25 Mar 2012 22:25:38 EDT

I am so very sorry for your loss. I remember growing up hearing what profound respect my father had for Mr. Peterson and had the pleasure of seeing why when I began teaching. He has made such a deep impact on the lives of so many Bloomfield families. I hope you find comfort during these times in knowing how much his caring and dedication meant to so many people. Your family will be in my thoughts and prayers.

Condolence From Peter Di Canio

Sun, 25 Mar 2012 21:56:59 EDT

Dear Christie, Meghan, and Carly, My deepest and most heartfelt sympathy is with you at this time of sorrow. Rick was a role model to me as I began my Special Education career back at Forest Glen many years ago. His gift of working with the exceptional child has inspired me numerous times over the last 30 years. His legacy will live on in the children and young adults whose lives he has enriched. I will always remember the wonderful times we shared at Forest Glen.....Farm Day, Special Olympics, and so many other fond memories. Rick was truly an exceptional individual who will be missed by many. With Sympathy, Peter Di Canio

Condolence From Mary Jean Alsina (Ippolito)

Sun, 25 Mar 2012 21:55:11 EDT

I am so, so sorry to hear of Rick's passing. When we taught together, I always respected him so much and he made work such a fun place to be. My prayers and thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time. God bless.

Condolence From Toni Harvey

Sun, 25 Mar 2012 21:03:14 EDT

Christie, Carly and Meghan, My heart goes out to you. Rick has left such an impact on so many lives. We were all blessed to be a part of his life. All of you are in my prayers. I know Heaven has one more angel looking over you. God bless you all! Love, Toni Harvey

Condolence From Terry Nevins

Sun, 25 Mar 2012 20:29:10 EDT

Dear Christie, Meg, and Carly, You and this world lost a very special person today. May God Bless you with strength, peace, and love. We all have memories and stories to share of a very passionate man who made a difference in this world. It's my hope that you will find comfort, love and support from all those who love you and are praying for you. God Bless, Love Aunt Terry

Memorial Candle lit by Joanne Grabowski

Sun, 25 Mar 2012 19:03:40 EDT

THE GRABOWSKI FAMILY

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Sun, 25 Mar 2012 16:31:49 EDT