David C. Peterman's Obituary
David Charles Peterman, 74, was born in Muskegon on November 20, 1943 to Charles and Helen (Sterenberg) Peterman. He died on May 6, 2018 at his home in North Muskegon after a brief battle with cancer. He was preceded in death by his parents; step-father, James Powell; infant sister, Charlotte Peterman; and granddaughter, Ingrid Ana Erickson. Dave is survived by his wife of 49 years, Melinda (Erwin) Peterman; along with his children, Dan (Amanda) Peterman of Jenison, MI, Julie Peterman (Jim Malone) of Cranford, NJ, and Jana (Philip) Erickson of North Muskegon; grandchildren, Carson, Ella, and Claire Peterman and Teddy, Johanna and Ben Erickson; siblings, Jean (Dan) Herlein of Bradenton, FL, Charlotte (Dan) McShannock of Midland, MI, and Jerry Peterman of Muskegon; and many nieces and nephews. Dave graduated from Muskegon High School in 1961 and from Central Michigan University in 1966. He found his calling as a social worker for Community Mental Health, a vocation he enjoyed immensely. Dave was a gifted athlete who loved being active. He was happiest outdoors- hiking, biking, golfing-and most of all, toiling away in his immaculate yard. In his later years, he delighted in spending time with his grandchildren, who doted on their beloved "Papa." Dave was a dedicated and involved member of Olivet Evangelical Free Church. Closest to his heart was the Benevolence Ministry, to which he gave himself with great passion and insight. He devoted most of his retirement to serving the Lord by caring for hurting people, that they might find lasting peace through a relationship with Jesus Christ. He was dearly loved by his wife and children, church family and many friends- including his CMH co-workers and the "first shift" breakfast group at the Causeway McDonalds. He lived a life of faithfulness, humility, hard work, integrity, compassion and joyful service. A Funeral Service will be held 11:00 AM Thursday, May 10, 2018 at Olivet Evangelical Free Church (6790 Harvey Rd., Norton Shores) with Pastor Craig Cramblet officiating. VISITATION with the family will be 5-8 PM Wednesday evening at The Sytsema Chapel, 737 Apple Avenue (231) 726-5210. In lieu of flowers, gifts may be given to the Benevolence Fund of Olivet Free Church or to Mission Area People.
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