James "Jim" Peterson Obituary

James “Jim” E. Peterson passed away peacefully in his sleep at his home in Park Forest on Jan. 26, 2026 at the age of 83. Jim is survived by his beloved family: Wife of 58 years, Judy Peterson; daughters: Jennifer (Jerold) Bean of Park Forest, JoAnn (David) Ruiz of Homewood; Grandchildren: Alyssa Peterson, Kayla Bean, Morgan Bean, Myles Bean, Jonathan Ruiz, Aden Ruiz. Great-Grandson, Arthur Jude “A.J.” Ruiz; Sister, Donna (Don) Tollefsen; late brother David (Genevieve) Peterson, nieces and nephews: Carl (Helene) Peterson, Russell (Brittany) Peterson, Susan (Dave) Fuhrman, Mary Mertz, Great Nephews and Nieces: Elizabeth (Clint) Chambliss, Chris (Maeko) Kramer, Joe (Tara) Kramer, Jacquelyn Jender, Joshua (Chloe) Mertz, Stetson Peterson, Finley Peterson. Great-Great nephew, Kai Kramer, and his dear cousin, Sally Fortune.

Jim graduated in 1961 from Chicago Vocational High School and worked as a draftsman. He served in the Illinois Army National Guard for 8 years. Jim and Judy married and lived in Blue Island before moving their young family to Park Forest. In 1980 he started Peterson Construction Company that is still in operation today. Jim enjoyed working and never intended to stop. He enjoyed bringing his Blue 1967 Chevrolet Chevelle to the Manteno car show, motorcycles and especially woodworking. He handcrafted many beautiful pieces of furniture, fine and jewelry boxes.

Visitation will be held on Sat., Jan. 31st, from 2:00 p.m. until the time of Funeral Service at 6:00 p.m. at Kurtz Memorial Chapel, 65 Old Frankfort Way, Frankfort, Illinois. For information or to sign guestbook visit heartlandmemorial.com or call Heartland Memorial Center at 708-444-2266.