Jerome Q. Peterson

Jerome Quentin Peterson (Jerry), 85, passed away September 21, 2018, surrounded by his loving family.

Jerry was born in Houghton, MI, on August 27, 1933. He attended Michigan Technological University and graduated in 1955 with a degree in Civil Engineering. This led to a long and successful 42-year career at the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers where he retired as the Chief of Flood Plain Management and Coastal Resources Division. Subsequently, Jerry served his country in the Army Reserves, a position he enjoyed and cherished, and from which he retired after 28 years as a colonel.

In the same year that Jerry graduated and began his career, he married the love of his life, Arlene Stevens. The two grew their union into a family of five with the births of their children, Sheryl, Craig, and Crystal. Following Jerry’s career, the family called both Detroit and Cincinnati home before finally settling down in the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area, where they still reside.

Anyone who met Jerry would be instantly drawn in by his infectious laugh and selfless demeanor. Jerry was always there to lend a helping hand, whether it be a home repair for a neighbor or family member or providing a list of restaurant/wait-staff recommendations from the index cards in his shirt pocket. Jerry was proud of his home landscaping, and even continued to keep a lovely garden after moving into a condominium 14 years ago. He loved his spirited dog Cami, leaving crisp $2 bills along with his tip after a dinner out, and any time spent at the beach. An honest and hard-working man, his jovial nature, lively sense of humor, and unwavering devotion to his family will forever be missed. Though those closest to him will miss him dearly, knowing that he has been called home to the comfort of Heaven to watch over his ever-growing family brings them peace.

Jerry is survived by his wife, Arlene; his children Sheryl (Tom), Craig (Terry), and Crystal; his grandchildren Erica (Doug), Lindsey (Ryan), Mallory, Chelsea (Michael), Shelby, and Connor; and his great-grandchildren Rhys and Wren.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, September 27 at 1:00pm, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Bowie, MD. Visitation with family begins at 12:00pm. The family politely requests that attendees dress in bright colors and floral patterns in place of black attire, to best celebrate the vibrant life of Jerry and his love of the beach and tropical travels!

Family kindly requests no black attire. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Heart Association, 4217 Park Place Court, Glen Allen, VA  23060.