John Kendall Peterson, Jr.
OBITUARY
John Kendall Peterson, Jr. of South Abington Twp. passed away peacefully on Saturday, February 7th, at Geisinger Community Medical Center in Scranton. Born in Philadelphia and raised in Huntingdon Pennsylvania, he was the only son of John K. Peterson, Sr. and Helen Launtz Peterson. He leaves behind his devoted wife of 33 years, Deborah Moran Peterson and his son, John (Jake) Peterson III, wife Paige Basalyga Peterson and granddaughters, Peyton Sydney Peterson and Harper Kendall Peterson, whom he loved deeply and more than anyone could imagine, as well as half-sister Laura, Warrick, PA, who was his confidant and best friend.
John was a registered respiratory therapist and a graduate of Robert Packer Hospital and Mansfield University, 1979. He was a consummate professional and was revered by his colleagues and medical staff as he was often sought out for his vast knowledge and intelligence.
John had a long and varied career. When he graduated, we worked as a therapist for Polyclinic Harrisburg, York Hospital, and relocated to Scranton to be Director of Respiratory Therapy at St. Joseph’s Hospital, which later became Marion Community in Carbondale, PA. He was co-owner of durable medical supply company, Uro-Care, and later worked at Allied Services and Commonwealth Health Moses Taylor Hospital as a registered respiratory therapist. In every county in which John lived, he also served as a dedicated volunteer firemen for numerous hose companies throughout the years.
John enjoyed good conversation, visiting his friends, investing in fine wines and could talk endlessly about the region and origin of the grapes. He loved plants and all living creatures, large and small, his cat Tula, dogs, birds and snakes. He also enjoyed photography. He was a contradiction of sorts John was bigger than life, but had a refinement and was a gentle soul.
John will be deeply missed by all that knew him. He had a big personality, laughed loudly and loved fiercely. May the angels smile brighter because he joined them.
He was preceded in death by his half-sister, Cheryl Peterson and Jean Peterson (Laura and Cheryl’s mother).
His family would like to acknowledge and thank the entire staffs of Geisinger C.M.C.’s I.C.U., of Allied Services Rehabilitation and Physical Therapy and of The Gift of Life Memorial Donor Program. Highlighting John’s legacy of generosity in his final act of kindness he gave the gift of life through organ donation.
A celebration of John’s life is set for Saturday, February 28th, at the Scranton Cultural Center at the Masonic Temple, 420 N. Washinton Ave., Scranton, in the Grand Ballroom. Family and friends may pay their respects from 11:00 AM until 1:00 PM followed by a memorial service.
Memorial contributions may be made in John’s name to the Scranton Cultural Center at the Masonic Temple: Attn: Development c/o 420 North Washington Avenue, Scranton, Pa. 18503.
Arrangements are under the care of the Kevin K. Kearney Funeral Home, Inc., 125 North Main Avenue, Scranton. Please visit the funeral home’s website for directions or to leave a condolence.
John Kendall Peterson, Jr.
February 7, 2026