John D. Peterson

John Peterson, longtime resident of Barrington, Illinois passed away peacefully on May 20, 2026, at the age of 92. Born on July 1, 1933, in Evanston, Illinois, to Virginia and Harold Peterson, John grew up with a sharp mind, a quick wit, and a curiosity that never faded. He began his career as a teacher before moving into the world of advertising, where he rose to become Senior Vice President at Leo Burnett in Chicago.

John was a devoted husband to his wife Joan, and an engaged father who cherished every moment with his family. He was also a prolific writer, publishing mysteries, essay collections, and founding Gilbert!, a literary magazine dedicated to his favorite author and philosopher, G.K. Chesterton. His proud membership in the Chesterton Society reflected a lifelong passion for ideas, faith, and the written word.

Being “Gramps” was one of his proudest roles. He loved nothing more than to walk around with his grandchildren and great grandchildren as babies, coloring in coloring books beside them, challenging them with riddles, and he seemed to know the lyrics to every song ever written.

He was funny, brilliant, social, and enormously generous with his time and his heart.

John was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Joan; his loving children: Joan Pagliai, Mary Peterson, John Peterson, and Ann Foley; grandchildren: Elizabeth, Katherine, James, Michael and Allison; great-grandchildren: Aurora, Scarlett, Florence, Virginia, Mabel, James, Lawrence, Gabriel, Davis, Shea, and Raymond. 

A Funeral Mass will be held at 10 AM on Wednesday, June 3, 2026 at St. Peter Catholic Church, 27551 Volo Village Rd, Volo, Illinois. All are welcome to celebrate a life wonderfully lived.