Mark J. Peterson

               Mark J. Peterson, 77, of Victory Heights, Franklin, died at his home on Monday afternoon, June 3, 2024, following a lengthy illness.

                He was born in Franklin on November 30, 1946 to the late Richard H. and Phyllis M. (Graham) Peterson.

                He was a 1966 graduate of Cranberry High School.  He enjoyed playing baseball, basketball, and track and field. 

                He served in the U.S. Army Reserves from 1966 through 1975. 

                Mark was an active member of the Victory Heights Community League. 

                He attended the First Church of God in Oil City. 

                Mark loved the outdoors and enjoyed hunting, fishing, and camping.  He played softball in the Over 35 and Over 55 leagues.  He enjoyed spending time working in his yard and garden, sitting by the fire, and spending time with his family and grandchildren. 

                He was employed as a lineman for GTE Telephone Company, retiring after 25 years of service. 

                He was married in the Victory Heights United Brethren Church on August 5, 1972 to the former Sharon L. Zook, and she survives. 

                Also surviving are their three children:  Eric Peterson and his wife Sarah of New Bethlehem, Daniel Peterson and his wife Emily of Slippery Rock, and Krista Peterson of St. Louis, Missouri; six grandchildren: Danielle Comiske and her husband Tyler and their daughter Ellie, Logan, Lucas, and Delanie Peterson, and Garrett and Clint Peterson.  Mark is also survived by his brother, Jon Peterson and his wife Dixie of Franklin; a sister-in-law, Nancy Peterson of Franklin; numerous nieces and nephews; and good friends with whom they shared many adventures, Denzil and Jackie Cauvel of Cochranton. 

                In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his twin great-granddaughters; two brothers, Richard W. Peterson and Thomas H. Peterson Sr. and his wife Georgia; and a sister, Margaret "Peggy" Ku and her husband Ed. 

                Friends will be received Saturday (June 8) from 1 - 3 p.m. in the First Church of God, 11 East 8th St. in Oil City, where a memorial service will follow Saturday at 3 p.m. with Pastor Brenda Snedden, officiating.  The service will begin with military funeral honors accorded by the V.E.T.S. Honor Guard. 

                In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the First Church of God, 11 E. 8th St., Oil City, PA  16301; or to AseraCare Hospice (Amedisys Company), P.O. Box 944, Waterford, PA  16441.

                Funeral arrangements are being completed by Hile-Best Funeral Home in Seneca.  To express online condolences to Mark's family, visit www.hilebest.com

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