James E. Petersen, age 72, passed away November 23, 2016. Loving father of Sheryl M. Petersen (husband Joseph Donaldson), and John V. Petersen; dearest brother of John M. (wife Kerry), Jack B. (late wife Jennifer), Jill K., and Joan S. (husband Mark Sims); and cherished ex-husband of Ann G. Petersen.
Jim was born March 28, 1944 and enjoyed a youth filled with family, Lake Erie summers, and scouting. He earned scouting’s highest rank, Eagle Scout, but missed his high school graduation to become waterfront director at Tinnerman Wilderness Canoe Base. Later, he graduated from Cleveland State and worked as an accountant for American Spring Wire. Like many Clevelanders he was an enthusiastic Indians, Cavs, and Browns fan through good times and bad. Jim was also an avid reader and especially enjoyed science fiction. He tackled life with relentless humor and optimism.
Jim lived with integrity, gentleness, and awe for the natural word. He loved to hike and was a devoted volunteer with The Cleveland Metroparks and Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Good conversation and plenty of picture taking were always guaranteed if you went on a walk with Jim. He touched the lives of numerous hiking partners and fellow volunteers. And though he is no longer with us we will remember him through the thousands of pictures he took to capture the beauty of nature and joy of life all around us. He will be dearly missed. Rest in peace Jim, we love you.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Jim’s memory to Cleveland Metroparks Trail Ambassadors Fund, Legacy Fund, or General Trail Fund (Gift and Donor Development, 4101 Fulton Parkway, Cleveland, Ohio 44144) or the Conservancy for Cuyahoga Valley National Park (https://www.conservancyforcvnp.org/donate).
Friends are welcome to join the family in celebrating Jim’s life on Sunday December 18, 3-5 PM at the North Chagrin Nature Center Auditorium, located in North Chagrin Reservation, 3037 SOM Center Rd, Willoughby Hills, OH 44094. From the entrance road (Sunset Lane), turn right (south) on Buttermilk Falls Parkway and follow signs for the Nature Center.
Cremation by DeJohn Funeral Homes and Crematory 28890 Chardon Road, Willoughby Hills, OH 44092.
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