David E. Peterson, 72, of Springfield, passed away on Monday, February 28, 2022, at Springfield Memorial Hospital.

He was born on June 23, 1949, in Richland, WA, the son of David and Sybil (Haberkorn) Peterson. Dave married Barb Engel on December 26, 1970, in Villa Park, IL.

Dave grew up in Villa Park, IL, and graduated from Willowbrook High School in 1967. He then attended University of Michigan and University of Illinois, earning his J.D. degree from U of I’s Law School. Dave was a member of the Springfield community since 1974. He worked as an attorney for the IL Dept. of Public Aid from 1974-1997 and the IL Dept. of Human Services from 1997-2002. From 1996-2002, he worked on implementing Welfare Reform Law. He enjoyed reading, golf, bicycling, playing piano, running (he ran in the Chicago Marathon), and listening to classic rock, jazz, blues, folk and classical music. He also enjoyed volunteering for Meals on Wheels. Dave was known as an intelligent, kind, and considerate man.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and son, John Peterson.

Dave is survived by his wife, Barb Peterson of Springfield; daughter, Jessica (Ross) Beck of Dubuque, IA; grandchildren, Sonja and Lydia Beck; brother, Daniel (Carolyn) Peterson of Keene, NY; one niece; two nephews; several cousins; and many special friends.

Private family ceremonies will be held.

The family will host a celebration of life at a later date.