Harry N. Peterson
Harry N. Peterson, 90, a Naperville resident from 1970-2011, went home to his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ Sunday, September 16, 2012 at his Ballwin, MO home, surrounded by family. He was born June 29, 1922 in Chicago to Arthur and Anna Peterson.
Harry enlisted in the Army in 1942, serving in the 3187 Signal Service Battalion and was discharged April 22, 1946. After WWII, he attended DePaul Law School at night while working as a clerk in the Appellate Court of Illinois. During this time he lived at home caring for his parents. In 1964 Harry began working at the American Medical Association in the Legislative Department and eventually became the Director of Legislation of the Chicago office. He was with the AMA 25 years, retiring in 1988.
Harry was truly an amazing man. The words integrity, love, sacrifice, generosity and selflessness only begin to describe his godly character and the traits by which everyone who knew him were blessed. He was devoted to his family and friends. He was a committed Christian and was a longtime active member of the Naperville Congregational Church (now New Covenant). Harry will be greatly missed.
Harry is survived by his loving wife of almost 49 years, Carol; a daughter, Nancy (husband Jerome) Merritt and grandson, Elijah David Peterson Merritt of Ballwin, MO; a brother, Col. Howard Peterson of Colorado Springs; a sister, Shirley Benchelt of Naperville and numerous wonderful nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, Harry was preceded in death by two brothers and their wives, Stanley (wife Harriet) Peterson of Naperville and Arnold (wife Mary) Peterson of Florida; a sister-in-law, Norma Peterson; and a brother-in-law, Sheldon Benchelt.
Family and friends will gather for a celebration of his life at 2 p.m. Saturday, September 29, at New Covenant Church, 1 Bunting Lane, Naperville, IL 60540. The Rev. Donald Limmer will officiate.
In Lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Wayside Cross in Aurora, New Covenant Church, CareNet in Naperville, HIM! His Inheritance Minisrties in St. Louis or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Interment will be in the Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery.
Unfortunately, I come late to knowing of Harry’a passing. Much has been said prior to this of extolling Harry’s qualities – all so appropriate. I would add. as someone hired by Harry at the AMA, you could not have asked for a better mentor and friend as Harry. He was such as important influence in my life’ I know his family and friends all will miss him- but he left so much to encourage others. We mis him.