Obituary of Thomas M Petersen

Thomas Martin Petersen, 67, of Basking Ridge, succumbed to cancer at his home on April 16th surrounded by his loving family. Tom was born to parents Elizabeth and Thomas J. Petersen, in Staten Island NY in August of 1952. In 1957, the family moved to Florham Park NJ, where he spent his formative years. He attended Holy Family Catholic church and was active in his faith his entire life. He graduated from Hanover Park High school in 1970 and went on to Morris County College where he began studying a relatively new subject, Computer Programming. In Computer Programming he found a true passion; however, his studies were interrupted by the conflict in Vietnam. After drawing an unusually low draft number, Tom decided to enlist in the Army where he could refine his programming skills. After a 3 year enlistment, he returned to Florham Park to finish his studies at the Chubb Institute and pursue his professional career. In 1987, Tom married Alison Degutis. They settled in Basking Ridge to raise 2 beautiful daughters. This was perhaps the most enjoyable time of his life. Professionally, the last 20+ years were spent working as a Software Developer at Chubb Insurance where he had the pleasure of working with a team of highly talented individuals. Tom will forever be remembered as a kind, hardworking, and an adventurous soul who loved wood working, hiking, skiing, travel, and vacations at their summer cottage in Maine; however, most of all he was simply a wonderful father who treasured his two amazing daughters. He took great pride in seeing them both graduate college, pursue independent careers, and become fine young women. Surviving are his loving wife of 32 years, Alison, daughter Gillian of Bloomfield NJ, daughter Alexandria of New York, NY, a sister, Peggy Binder and her husband Karl, a sister, Susan Klein and her partner Gill, a sister, Karen Becker and her husband Bernie, a brother, Chris and his wife Crystal, and many nieces/nephews who've come to cherish his friendship and guidance over the years. A Memorial Service and Celebration of Life for Tom will be announced at a later date when friends and family can gather safely. Contributions can be made in his name to The Gary Sinise Foundation, Friends of the Somerset Regional Animal Shelter, or The National Park Foundation.