Richard C. Peterson, M.D., M.S. died unexpectedly at his home in Southbury, CT on February 1, 2009. Born in Hartford, Connecticut on August 3, 1923, he is predeceased by his wife, Michele Lorraine Peterson.
Dr. Peterson attended Trinity College prior to receiving his MD degree from Yale University School of Medicine in 1948. After graduation from medical school he worked as an intern at St. Francis Hospital from July 1948 - June 1949. While there he met his beautiful wife, Michele Lorraine Peterson who at the time was a student nurse. He served his country as a Captain in the US Air Force. His military career provided the opportunity to be the flight surgeon for the US Air Force Skyblazers, an elite aerial acrobatic squadron.
Subsequently, Dr. Peterson completed his residence in pediatrics at the University of Colorado Medical Center in Denver from 1952-1955, where he received his Master of Science from the University of Colorado.
In 1955 Dr. Peterson moved with his family to Stratford, Connecticut and entered into private pediatric practice. Throughout his career he had a profound effect on the lives of countless people whom he reached with a gentle manner and sincere compassion that defined him as a person. The impact of his work spanned three generations, during which time he provided medical care to both the children and grandchildren of his original patients.
A recognized leader in preventative pediatric care, Dr. Peterson founded Stratford's medical well child clinic. For the next 45 years, he served as the lead pediatrician in the clinic and was responsible for the program's development.
Dr. Peterson was on the staff at both the Bridgeport Hospital and St. Vincent's Hospital. He regularly attended the weekly staff meetings where he enjoyed the company of his colleagues and friends.
Dr. Peterson was devoted to the care and well being of his entire community. He selflessly offered his innate talent and ability as a physician to help those in need, further exemplified by his appointment as Primary Medical Advisor to the town of Stratford and the Stratford Board of Health. He held both positions from 1955 until his retirement at the age of 81 in early 2004. In addition, Dr. Peterson served for 49 years as the Medical Advisor to the Stratford Board of Education and in 1995 became an Advisory Board Member of the Town of Stratford School-Based Health Center.
Throughout his life he developed a love of history, nature, and athletic pursuit. As an avid golfer, he enjoyed spending time outdoors, both on and off the course. However his favorite activity was sharing his passion and knowledge of the woods with his children, grandchildren and dog Charlie. The focus of these interests was wildlife, indigenous species of trees and the importance of respect for nature.
Richard C. Peterson is survived by his three children and their spouses: daughter Melanie Barry and husband Robert; son Richard Peterson and wife Linda; daughter Michele Schempp and husband Stephen. He is also survived by his nine grandchildren: Robert, Whitney, and Ryan Barry; Colleen and Emily Peterson; Andrew, Alison, Erin, and Alex Schempp, two brothers Robert Peterson and his wife Lucille and Donald Peterson and his wife Shirley and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his sister Marie.
Richard C. Peterson was a beloved friend, husband, father, and grandfather. He will be greatly missed by all whose lives he touched throughout his extraordinary life.

Memorials: In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Bridgeport Hospital Foundation, Pediatrics, 267 Grant St., Bridgeport, Ct 06610.

Location: Munson-Lovetere Southbury

Funeral: St. Mark's Church

Services: A mass of Christian burial will take place on Thursday February 5th at 10: 00am at St. Mark's Church in Stratford. Burial will follow in St. Mary's Cemetery, Milford.

Visitation: Friends may call at the Southbury Funeral Home of Munson - Lovetere, 235 Main St. North, on Wednesday February 4th from 5: 00 - 9: 00pm.