Dale Peterson, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend to all, passed peacefully on February 5, 2022 surrounded by his loving sons and companion Tracy. Dale is survived by his two sons, Darin Peterson (wife Stephanie Carroll) of Swansboro, NC, and Ryan Peterson (wife Jamea Peterson) of Hughesville, MD, as well as his significant other of 22 years, Tracy Dawson of La Plata, MD, and her two children, Craig Dawson and Stephanie Therres. Dale has 6 grandchildren, Wyatt, Ryan, Allie, Beau, Gage and Wade (Cactus) Peterson. He also leaves behind his three sisters, Dawn Cox (husband Jesse Cox) of Winter Haven, FL, Colleen Seremet of Catonsville, MD and Coral Showalter (husband Gary Showalter) of La Plata, MD as well as several beloved nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, Lee and Gini (Fox) and sister, Mary Ann Peterson.

Dale moved to Waldorf, MD from Pittsfield, Maine with his family when he was 16 years old. He graduated from Thomas Stone High School in 1974 and started his family with the birth of his first son in 1980 and completed his family with the birth of his second in 1985. He raised his children in Waldorf and coached several little league teams in support of their passion, and made the effort to attend every game as they grew in their respective sports; there was no Dad more proud of their son(s) on that field. Dale worked for Southern Maryland Cable for 30 plus years where he gained notoriety for his unrivaled work ethic and his prowess on heavy machinery. He prided himself on his work which showed in projects he and his crew completed. Dale was also a volunteer firefighter and the Waldorf Volunteer Fire Department that he joined in 1972 where he was a fixture at the firehouse. Tracy joined Dale on his adventures in 2000 and created many memories.

Dale was a devoted fan of the local (Washington) sports teams, especially the Washington Redskins whom he relentlessly cheered on through thick and thin. There was never a question where you would find Dale on Sundays during football season, watching his Skins with his Budweiser, AKA "Bud Diesel" or "Grampie Soda", in hand. Like his father before him, Dale also enjoyed the occasional woodworking project and bestowed his children, and grandchildren, with several useful, decorative, and memorable pieces. Aside from his personal interests was the indisputable love of watching his sons, and later grandkids, play sports. Undoubtedly, his grandkids were the light in his eyes, and it was a rare occasion you heard him tell them "no." Grampie often emboldened and encouraged their mischievous nature for a good laugh, much to the chagrin of their parents.

Dale was known by many names, Dad, Grampie, Smooth, Stump, Herbie and Coach to name a few. He left a lasting impression for all those who knew him for his effortless and witty humor, unrelenting competitiveness and work ethic. Whether just playing cards, competing in "Friday Night Lights" or outworking others around him, Dale was always pushing to win. He strived to influence anyone he coached, mentored, or developed, and made everyone a better person with his efforts. The name "Peterson" meant something to Dad, and it resonated to those who knew him. To sum it up with Dad's personal philosophy, "It's all about being cool"!

Visitation for family and friends will be held on Saturday, February 12, 2022 at Raymond Funeral Service of LaPlata, MD from 10am to 1pm.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations in Dale's name are asked to Waldorf VFD Co 3, 3245 Old Washington Road, Waldorf, MD 20603.