John Lenters Peterson's spirit left this earth on Tuesday, November 22, 2022, at the age of 90. John was born and raised in the Sherman St./Fuller Ave. section of SE Grand Rapids. He was educated at Baxter Christian School and Grand Rapids Christian High. After high school, John served his country in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War (1952-1953). After his time in the service he joined his father in the printing business "The Peterson Printery" and served as worker/owner until 1998 when he retired. John went about his business in a quiet and efficient way. John married Verna Mae Kooi in 1954, and they were blessed with five children, Kathy, Steve, Betsy, Theresa and Deborah. During his working years he enjoyed fishing, bowling, and golfing, but finally decided that the bicycle was the best choice to keep himself in shape. He rode his bike many miles in Florida and in the Kentwood area, using the various trails offered in both places. John was preceded in death by his wife, Verna Mae "Vicki K."; son, Steve; grandsons, Jeramey and Joseph; twin brother, Peter; sister, Fran VanderArk; and son-in-law, Jim Weems. John was a devoted husband and father, caring deeply about his family. He is survived by his children, Kathy (Dan) Bell, Betsy Weems, Theresa (Jim) Lundy, Deborah (Bill) Ward; daughter-in-law, Brenda Peterson; 17 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren; brother, Jack (Sharon) Peterson, sister, Karen (Jack) Lanning; sister-in-law, Leanore Peterson; and many nieces and nephews.  The family will greet visitors on Tuesday, November 29, from 10 - 11 am followed by the memorial service at 11 AM at Trinity United Methodist Church, 1100 Lake Dr. SE., Grand Rapids, MI 49506. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Kids' Food Basket.  John had empathy for the needy and was generous with his money to charities serving those causes. John "lived simply, so others might simply live".