Groveland: At age 88, Willard (known to his loved ones as Bud) passed away on Tuesday, December 8, 2020 at Nicholas H. Noyes Memorial Hospital in Dansville. He was born in Horace, KS to the late Frank and Roberta Peterson. Willard is predeceased by his wife; G. Marie Peterson. Survived by his sons; Joel (Virginia) Peterson and Jason (Melissa) Peterson, along with his grandchildren Leah (Brendon) Filardo, and Ian Peterson.
Bud’s life was a very sweet and true love story. It was marked by his romance of 64 years with G. Marie. Their love for one another never diminished – continuing to expand until the day she died – on their 64th anniversary. In his thirties, Bud [with his entire family] came to know Jesus Christ in a “born-again” experience [a mystery that those who have experienced can attest to the power thereof]. Nothing shaped Bud’s life, or the lives of his family, more beautifully or profoundly than this! Bud has finished his race. Those who knew him will rejoice with him now – knowing that his joy is complete.
At this time no formal funeral service will take place. Memorial contributions may be made to: The Teresa House, 21 Highland Road, Geneseo, NY 14454. To share a memory or a condolence, please visit: www.doughertyfuneralhomes.com
Bud Peterson was such a good teacher in the Art Department at Geneseo. He was a gentle guide, always patient and kind. I admired his skills and artistry, but also the deep goodness of this man. Though I had not seen him in a very long time I never forgot about my favorite teacher in college. Though I only knew him as a professor, the tributes left by others here attesting to his faith are no surprise. My condolences to Bud’s family and friends.
We loved spending time with Bud and Jason at Wegmans on Fridays fellowshiping over coffee and snacks. It was one of the highlights of our week. Bud had walked closely with the Lord for a long time and it showed in his conversations. We loved hearing his stories and experiences about the Lord and his family. He had such a great love for G.Marie and had missed her so much after she went to be with the Lord. Jason we know that he loved fellowshiping with you and Joel and he was so proud of you both. Bud is greatly. missed already. I picture him with perfect hearing and vision talking to Jesus as he holds G.Marie’s hand. I am so happy for him. And so grateful to call him my friend. I take comfort in knowing we will see him and G.Marie again. Love to you Jason, Joel and Ginny from Bruce, Julie and Elisha.
For so many reasons, I loved and appreciated, and will miss, Uncle Bud. He was always the epitome of warmth and kindness, a true Jesus-loving gentleman. The Lord used him in so many ways to teach me and to excite me about the Lord’s plans for the future. Uncle Bud’s faithfulness in following the Lord set a great example for me and all who knew him. On a particular personal note, I’m so grateful that he was a part of my coming-of-age manhood walk at Letchworth Park. He gave me wise words, and gifts then and later, but most of all I was honored that this man I admired made time to be there for one of the most important days of my life.
I‘ll also miss his warm, hearty chuckle. Thank you to all the Petersons for sharing your Dad/grandpa with us. Praying for y’all, and looking forward to when we’re all together again, with the Lord. Love you!
Bud was a wonderful person and a dear friend to many of us here at Wegmans Geneseo. We will cherish the memory of his daily visits and extend our condolences to his family and friends. We will miss you Bud…
Bud and G Marie were a memorable part of my early days of walking with the Lord. I admired the way they shared their faith with me, as a new believer. Bud had a real presence in a room and with his lovely bride by his side, they made a beautiful couple. Their warm smiles, hugs and laughter just made you feel welcome and loved. It was a gift to have known them. My best to Jason, Joel and their families.
It was a blessing to know Bud & G. Marie and to know they are together once again. RIP Bud
He and G Marie were foundations of unconditional love in my life . I am eternally thankful for the investment that Bud and G.Marie poured into my life for over 50 years . I cannot think of one without the other they truly were one. The impact they had on my life will remain forever and I am so thankful to have been blessed to share them with you.
May we all follow in their footsteps and in their example of what it is to follow Christ wholeheartedly.
A true man and a wonderful influence in my college days at Geneseo.
Bud and GMarie, Joel and Jason have been very important in our lives. When we moved to Geneseo in 1965 they welcomed us in their home and helped us get settled in Ny. The 4 of us adults were from Kansas and attended Fort Hays Kansas State college so had much in common and we were a part of their spiritual lives. We have so many wonderful memories of being with this dear family! We celebrate Bud’s promotion into eternity with our dear Lord!
I have very fond memories of both Bud and GMarie! What a privilege to have grown up with you in my life! Your love and care towards me was very valuable through my growing up years! I treasure the memories of our families gathering on Sundays! We would have our church time and family Sunday meals together afterwards! What a blessing to grow up with families connected together! Something that is rarely witnessed these days! I rejoice with you as you are in the Father’s arms! You’ve run your race well! Love to you Joel and Jason and families! Very sorry for your loss!!
Over my years working at Wegmans, or stopping in, I’d visit Bud, his Sweet Wife G. Marie (Until her passing) and my dear Brothers and sisters at the Monday Fellowship. We prayed, laughed and shared together and he gave me the yearly devotional book, The One Year Experiencing God’s Presence in 2016. I got to see him one last time with his Son at Wegmans a few months ago. I’ll always remember his wonderful voice and smile and genuine Christian love. I look forward to being greeted by him and G. Marie when its my time to open my eyes in eternity.
Bud was a wonderful man of God, and will be deeply missed by all his family and friends! Our sorrow is tinged with joy knowing that he is now reunited with his beloved G. Marie, and in the presence of his Savior! Our heartfelt sympathies to all those who loved him on this earth. You will be in our prayers!