Donald "Lightning" Peterson

Donald H. Peterson, “Lightning”, 85, of Wells, Maine formerly of Sterling passed away Thursday, May 29, 2025, on his 54th wedding anniversary after being stricken ill at home.

Donald was born in Worcester, the son of Carl and Edith (Blanchard) Peterson. He graduated from North High and went on to obtain his bachelor’s degree from Bentley University and an advanced degree from WPI’s School of Industrial Management (SIM) program. He began his career as an accountant with Heald Machine Corporation and went on to become Controller after passing the CPA exam. He then worked at Reed-Rico and subsequently PCC Specialties before retiring. In addition to his professional career, Donald also served in the Massachusetts Air National Guard during the Vietnam War.

Donald is survived by his loving wife, Linda (Carbone); two children he cherished, Jeffrey C. Peterson and his wife Emily of Pepperell, Laurine M. Tetreault and her husband Christopher of Sterling; his twin brother, David and his wife, Janet, of Ft Pierce, FL; 5 adored grandchildren, Andrew, Olivia, Samuel, Dillon, and Austin; brother and sister-in-law, William and Kathy “Kitch” Carbone of Holden; Nieces, nephews, extended family, and a host of friends. In addition to his parents, his sister, Carol Stark, predeceased him.

A selfless and devoted man, he cherished his family and all the special moments he shared with them. Family, friends and community were the most important parts of his life. He volunteered for many organizations, both church and community, including serving as treasurer of both the Wachusett High School Boosters Club, and Moody Beach Association (for 42 years). As hobbies, he was a collector of sports cards and memorabilia, an avid bowler and golfer, member of Old Marsh Country Club, and recorded a hole in one on the fourth hole at Wachusett CC.

He was loved by so many and will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

A period of calling hours will be held Wednesday, June 4th from 10am to 12 noon followed by a prayer service in the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St. Burial with military honors will follow at Hillside Cemetery, Sterling. Donations in his name can be made to the Juvenile diabetes foundation, 200 Vesey Street, 28th Floor, New York, NY 01281. www.JDRF.org