Leo P. Peterson

Leo Paul Peterson, 84, of Drexel Hill, PA (formerly of Upper Darby), passed away peacefully on January 30, 2026. Born in Nicholson, PA, he was the beloved son of the late John and Verna Deen Peterson (née Zellers).

Leo was a proud graduate of Bartram High School in Philadelphia. Shortly thereafter, he met the love of his life, Kathleen Peterson (née Brogan), at Long Beach Island, New Jersey. Together, they shared 60 wonderful years of marriage. After marrying, Leo and Kathleen settled in the St. Laurence section of Upper Darby, where they raised their four children.

Leo was known for his remarkable work ethic, dedicating 35 years to the United States Postal Service as a night-shift mail handler. Never one to slow down, he also worked for many years as a custodian at St. Laurence School. That role held special meaning for Leo, as it allowed him to see his children throughout the day while making a lasting impact on countless students and families. A true jack of all trades, Leo was dependable, hardworking, and could fix just about anything.

During his time at St. Laurence, Leo became a familiar and cherished presence, known for his warm smile, colorful hair, and genuine kindness. He brightened the days of many children and generously gave his time coaching CYO football, basketball, and HPKAA. After leaving St. Laurence, Leo continued serving his community by working part-time at Donohue Funeral Home, where his legacy of care and dedication carried on.

When his wife’s health began to decline, Leo devoted himself fully to her care. Even after she moved to Fair Acres, his loving presence remained a constant, and he was adored by all who came to know him there.

Leo loved summer trips to the shore, traveling with his wife, and taking his grandchildren to Disney World. He also enjoyed trips to the casino, scratch-off tickets, and cheering on Philadelphia sports teams. At home, Leo could often be found working on a jigsaw puzzle or coloring, two pastimes he truly enjoyed.

Leo is survived by his loving wife, Kathleen Peterson; his four children, Donald (Dyan), James (Diane), Charles, and Margaret Deuber; and his cherished grandchildren, Shawn Deuber (Jessica), Keith Deuber (Kim), Bryan Deuber (Alyssa), Michael Deuber (Tina), Megan Peterson, Ryan Peterson, Jacquelyn Deuber-Peterson, Peter DePaul, and Brayden Peterson. He was a devoted great-grandfather to Vinny, Kai, Riley, Aria, and baby Deuber in March 2026.

Leo is also survived by his many nieces and nephews, as well as his sisters, Kathryn Parker and Betty O’Brien. He was predeceased by his brothers, Thomas, Ronald, John “Sonny” Peterson, Rose Peterson; his beloved daughter-in-law, Tara Peterson; and his son-in-law, John Deuber.

Leo’s devotion to his family, witty humor, contagious smile, tireless work ethic, and genuine kindness will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Relatives and friends are invited to his Visitation 9:30-11:00 AM Saturday, February 7, 2026 at St. Laurence Church, 8425 West Chester Pike, Upper Darby, PA followed by his Funeral Mass 11:00 AM. Interment Private.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Fair Acres Special Aid and Entertainment Fund, Attn: TAS or Sue Harrar, 340 N Middletown Road, Media PA 19063.