William W. Peterson

He was born Jan. 31, 1938 in Falconer, the son of the late Kenneth D. and Maxine Hitchner Peterson.

Bill was a graduate of Edgewater High School in Orlando, Florida and was a Veteran of the U.S. Navy serving from 1957 to 1959.

Bill was a member of the Bemus Point United Methodist Church. He enjoyed his family, and some of his hobbies were woodworking, repairing Volkswagens, farming, reading, NASCAR, MotorTrend and was a Cleveland Browns fan.

He was preceded in death by his loving wife M. Lynne Wright Peterson whom he married March 24, 1962 in Maitland, FL, who died Oct. 29, 2023 and a brother Kenneth “Butch” Peterson.

Surviving are his three children: Kerry (Bret) Santilli of Bemus Point, Chad (Debra) Peterson of Spencer, TN; Amy (Jeffrey) Christiano of Victor, NY; six grandchildren: Spencer (Kortney) Santilli, Chelsea (Brent) Owens, Jessica Santilli, Travis Peterson, Riley (Isabella) Christiano, Cassey Peterson; five great grandchildren: Grayson, JoJo, Xander, Milo and Vincenzo; a sister Sharon Lee of Tampa, FL and a sister-in-law Mary Peterson of Eustis, FL .

He owned and operated P & P Enterprises in Ellery for many years and prior to retirement he was employed by Rammelt & Sons in Westfield. After retirement Bill along with his wife Lynne were caretakers at the River Rock Retreat in Bemus Point.

Bill will be lovingly remembered as a devoted husband, an outstanding father, a sweet and cherished Papa, a caring brother, and a true friend to many. Everyone who knew him loved him–his gentle nature, quiet strength, faith, and kind heart left a lasting impression on all who crossed his path. Bill had a gift for patience and understanding, whether it was with people, animals (who seemed to naturally trust him), or even old Volkswagens, which he somehow kept running long past their time. He had a playful spirit and an uncanny ability to win at any game, much to everyone’s amazement and amusement even earning the name of “Wicket Willy.” Bill also had a remarkable sweet tooth for chocolate and a generous spirit that showed in the little things–helping with quilt making, baking sweet rolls, rolling pickle forks, carving a wood bowl, and sharing with family and friends over all these years. His warmth, humor, and quiet wisdom will be deeply missed and forever treasured.

A private memorial service will be held at the convenience of the family at a later date.

Visitation will not be observed.

Memorials may be donated to the Chautauqua County Humane Society. Visit our website at www.falconerfuneralhome.net to send a message of condolence.