The family of Frederick Donald (Don) Petersen, regret to announce that – after 90 years of living life to the fullest – their dear husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and friend passed away on Tuesday, April 5, 2022.

Universally loved for his charm and dry wit, Don was born in Port Chester, NY, and raised in Dumont, NJ. Don most recently resided in Manahawkin, with his beloved wife and cruising partner of forty years, Joan F. (nee Lomas) Petersen. Ever industrious, Don had a vast and storied career including ownership of the popular Happy Time Saloon in Roselle, NJ, and Bell Painting and Contracting in Bergenfield, NJ. A true patriot and passionate about supporting military veterans, he was a member of the fraternal order of the Elks, Dumont Lodge No. 2593. In addition to cultivating lifelong friendships during his active years of service with the Elks, Don also served in a number of leadership roles with the benevolent organization, including serving as district Vice President and state Trustee.

Don was predeceased by his parents, Frederick S. and Ann (nee Emmeluth) Petersen; his brother, Robert Petersen; and his sister, Elizabeth Zeller.

Along with his wife, Joan, Don is survived by son Donald Jeffrey (Jeff) Petersen and his wife, Joan; son Gregory Petersen and his wife, Colleen; daughter Mary Petersen; daughter, Barbara Law and her husband, Edward; and granddaughter Jessica Neumann and her husband, Brian; great grandchildren Addison and Juliana, and his loving nieces and nephews.

Visiting hours will take place on Sunday, April 10, 2022, from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Maxwell-Tobie Funeral Home, 573 Mill Creek Road, Manahawkin NJ, 08050.

A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. on Monday, April 11th at St. Mary’s Church, 747 W. Bay Avenue, Barnegat, NJ, 08005. Entombment will follow at Ocean County Memorial Park, Wells Mills Road, Waretown, NJ.