Richard Charles Peterson, 85, of Yardley, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully on November 4, 2025. He was born on July 22, 1940, in Brookings, South Dakota, the son of the late Everett E. Peterson and Armilda Mae “Mickey” Peterson.

Richard devoted his life to education and to inspiring young minds. After earning his Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Nebraska and a Master’s degree from Rutgers University, he completed two additional years of graduate study at the University of Nebraska. His long and rewarding career as a high school mathematics teacher, most notably at Walter Johnson High School in Bethesda, Maryland, reflected both his intellect and his deep commitment to his students.

On July 29, 1967, Richard married Phyllis Wheeler in Denville, New Jersey. The two shared 58 years of love, laughter, and adventure. He is survived by his wife Phyllis; his daughter Krista Peterson Oleynick (husband Ed Oleynick) of Yardley, Pennsylvania; his son Brent Erik Peterson (wife Evelyn Winter Peterson) of Ashland, Virginia; and his brother Ron Peterson (wife Kathy Peterson) of Broomfield, Colorado. He was preceded in death by his son Kyle Joseph Peterson. Richard was the proud grandfather of Robbie Parsons Oleynick, Megan Beth Oleynick, Lily Peterson Reid (husband Zach Reid), Ella Mae Peterson, Sophia Grace Peterson, and Kyle’s children Jonah (wife Michaela), Gabriel, Dylan, and Isabella.

Richard’s life was rich with curiosity, friendship, and faith. He loved the outdoors — hiking, skiing, camping, and boating — and was an enthusiastic baseball fan, cheering for both the Baltimore Orioles and the Philadelphia Phillies. He enjoyed traveling, reading newspapers and nonfiction, participating in church activities, and playing chess, bridge, and canasta with family and friends. Those who knew him will remember his sharp wit, gentle wisdom, and steadfast kindness.

A memorial service to celebrate Richard’s life will be held on Friday, November 21, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., at Woodside Church, 1667 Edgewood Road, Yardley, Pennsylvania 19067. A lunch will be held at the church following the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations to Woodside Church, The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research, or a charity of your choice.

Arrangements are under the care of the FitzGerald-Sommer Funeral Home 17 S. Delaware Avenue Yardley, PA 19067.  Condolences for the family can be left at www.fitzgeraldsommerfuneralhome.com.