Obituary of Richard N. Peterson

Richard N. Peterson

It is with profound sadness and the heaviest of hearts we announce the passing of Richard “Rick” N. Peterson, 71, of Belvidere, NJ on May 12, 2026. Born October 8,1954 in Tulsa, Oklahoma, the only son of Edith L. Blanks and Albert N. Peterson.

Rick was raised in Eagle Rock, CA. and spent country summers with aunts, uncles and cousins in Visalia, CA. and Bebee, AR. He attended school in Eagle Rock and his service to his country began when he joined the Naval Sea Cadets program as a young teen with his best friend Manny Castro. Rick wanted to continue his service by following his uncle Hugh, who had been a career Marine. Rick left school early in his senior year at age 17 to join the Marines in 1972 during the Vietnam war. He was stationed at Camp Pendleton in San Diego, Okinawa, Japan and Jacksonville, Fl. where he was Honorably discharged with a National Defense Service medal and Rifle Sharpshooter’s Badge.

Rick was always proud of his service as a Marine all his life. There is no such thing as being referred to as a “former” Marine. It has been a long time coming that servicemen/women are finally having the respect they all deserved from that time period. He was so happy to celebrate the 250th birthday of the Marines last November and at Christmas, that was the theme for gifts.

Next was his fire service beginning with fighting wildfires in Southern CA, again with his best friend Manny. When moving to NJ in 1986, Rick joined Shongum Mtn Fire Company in Randolph. He joined Good Will Fire Co. #1 a few months after moving to Belvidere in 1992. He was proud to have been part of the fire company family for both departments and the camaraderie of fellow firefighters and first responders everywhere.

His dear friend, Neal Davis, introduced him to the Celtic Classic games, held in Septembers in Bethlehem, PA. Rick was a volunteer member of the field committee for many years. Yes, real men, even Marines, wear kilts.

Rick's last employment was with General Wire & Stamping in Randolph for over 30 years as a quality control inspector. Again, another “family” he was part of for so long.

First and foremost, Rick was a devoted and most loving husband to Linda-Sue, sharing 44 years of marriage. Meeting by chance in Glendale, CA and 10 days later began their life

together. He was true to his promise that life would never be dull. Dad to most loved and cherished daughter, Lisa Marie, whose strong bond was immediate at birth. They shared many interests including cross bow shooting, hunting, sci-fi and horror movies. They looked forward to every October as members of Dark Forest Creations (DFC) at Burn Brae Mansion in Glen Spey, NY. They enjoyed playing their roles on the Haunted Trail.

Pop Pop to best buddy grandson, Joey, spending most weekend nights staying over and watching action, adventure, old and new sci-fi movies and comedies. They also spent time going camping, kayaking, fishing, slot cars, and going to car shows. Joey also became part of the DFC family and relished his roles on the Trail.

Rick was predeceased by his parents, stepdad Tony Morell, sister Shirley Staten, niece Tracy Barber, and numerous aunts and uncles. Besides his wife, daughter and grandson, survivors include his much-loved sister, Pat Driskill of Yucaipa, CA., stepbrother James Peterson of Oklahoma City OK., extended family in Monroe, LA, many cousins, nieces and nephews.

Rick will be sorely missed by his family, friends, neighbors and his community. His personality was kind, cheerful, always ready to lend a helping hand and friendly to all he met.

Many thanks to all the first responders, GWFC #1, friends, including FB friends and all those who have extended their sympathies. We take comfort in the outpouring of support we have received.

In keeping with Rick’s wishes, there will be no services at this time.

A memorial service may be forthcoming at the family’s convenience.