Oxford - Howard A. "Howie" Peterson died on Saturday, February 4, 2012, at age 86, surrounded by his family. He leaves behind his wife, Virginia M. (Nelson) Peterson, to whom he was married for over 52 years. Howard also leaves a sister, Edna Hill, a son Jeff, a daughter Karin, a daughter-in-law Sharlene, and three granddaughters, Hannah, Emma, and Annika.
Howie was a charter member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Worcester, where he sang in the church choir. He loved music and, in addition to singing, played the drum and bass clarinet in various bands and orchestras including the Trinity Church Symphonette.
Howie served in the U.S. Army during World War II. He saw combat at the Battle of the Bulge as part of the 28th Infantry Division. He earned the Bronze Star for bravery and meritorious service. He also helped to liberate two concentration camps in Western Europe and was in Germany for V-E Day, which he called the happiest day of his military service.
Howie joined Boy Scouts at age 11 and remained active in Scouting for almost 75 years. He served in numerous volunteer positions in Scouting, including Unit Organization Chairman. In this role, he started or reorganized over 100 troops, packs, and posts throughout Worcester County. He also served as District Advancement Committee Chairman, overseeing Eagle Scout service projects and boards of review. He also served as Cubmaster, Scoutmaster, and Committee Chairman for Troop 147 in Oxford for over 30 years. For his volunteer efforts, he earned the Silver Beaver and the District Award of Merit.
Calling hours will be held at Nordgren Memorial Chapel, 300 Lincoln Street, Worcester, on Tuesday, Feb. 7, from 4-7 pm. The funeral service will be held at Trinity Lutheran Church on Wednesday, Feb. 8, at 11 am. Burial with military honors will follow in Worcester County Memorial Park, Paxton. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to either the Mohegan Council Boy Scouts, 19 Harvard Street, Worcester MA 01609 or Trinity Lutheran Church, 73 Lancaster Street, Worcester MA 01609.
For directions to the funeral home and to leave a message of condolence in Howie's online guestbook, please click link below.