John Elwood Peterson

April 5, 1943  -  October 30, 2026

John Elwood Peterson Obituary

With heavy hearts and profound sadness, we announce the passing of our beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, husband, brother, and friend.

Born on April 5, 1943, in Bensalem, Pennsylvania, he lived a beautiful life filled with love, family, adventure, kindness, and faith. He was a man who never hesitated to lend a helping hand, who gave without expecting anything in return, and who touched the lives of so many people along the way.

His journey took him from Pennsylvania to Vermont, where he moved to do God’s work. In 1974, he was blessed with the arrival of his first son. He later moved to New York, where he welcomed his daughter and continued building the family that meant everything to him.

Some of his happiest memories were made spending time with his family on Lake George, enjoying years of boating, camping, and making memories that would last a lifetime.

In 1980, he moved his family to Medina, Ohio, where he enjoyed gardening, spending time with loved ones, and doing the things he loved most. He had a passion for skiing, whether on snow or water, and always enjoyed an adventure.

In 1996, he made his way to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, where he continued his journey, working in real estate and spending time enjoying the beach. He spent most of his working life in the insurance industry, building relationships and always being someone people could count on.

One of his most special roles was playing Santa Claus for fifteen years. He brought smiles, excitement, and so much joy to countless children. It was just another reflection of the kindhearted man he was and the happiness he loved sharing with others.

He was blessed with a loving marriage of 34 years to his husband, Joey Marciniak. Joey loved him dearly and cared for him like no other. His devotion, compassion, and unconditional love throughout their years together were truly special. He stood by his side and gave him a love that words could never fully express.

He leaves behind his loving husband , Joey Marciniak; his daughter, DeAnna Grow, and her husband, Rich; and his son, Jared Peterson.

He was a proud grandfather to Brianna Corrao and her husband, Michael, of Brunswick, Ohio; Sydney Pavlou and her husband, Athanasios, of North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina; and Anya Baltenbach of Columbia, South Carolina.

His legacy continues through his beloved great-grandchildren, Marlee Jane Peterson, Ophelia Corrao, and Kayce Corrao, who brought him so much love and joy.

He is also survived by his sister, Marie Peterson Jones, and her husband, Roger, of Bensalem, Pennsylvania, along with many extended family members and friends who will forever cherish his memory.

To his children, he was an amazing father, a teacher, a supporter, and someone who always believed in them. To his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, he was a loving grandfather whose presence, wisdom, and love will live on through the memories they shared.

He was truly one of the kindest and most loving men you could ever meet. If you needed something, he would do anything in his power to help. He gave his love freely, supported those around him, and made people feel like they mattered.

His passing leaves an emptiness that can never be filled. For those of us who loved him, we didn’t just lose a father, husband, grandfather, or brother. We lost a hero, a guiding light, and a piece of our family.

Though our hearts are broken, we find comfort knowing that the lessons he taught us, the love he gave us, and the memories we made will stay with us forever.