James Ralph Peterson, known affectionately as Jim, passed away on May 30, 2024, in his home surrounded by loved ones in Rahway, New Jersey. Born on January 18, 1943 in Litchfield, Minnesota, he was the son of Loraine and James Peterson. James was a master mason and was raised in Kalispell, Montana, where he lived most of his life.

James graduated from Flathead County High School in 1961.  He joined the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers #568 in 1964 in Kalispell, Montana. He worked as an electrician, often traveling for work which allowed him to see the world, until his retirement in 2008.

‍In 1962 he married his first wife, Anita Rice, and together they raised one daughter, Ronica Kay Hanns, who James adored. James met Donna Glynne Peterson in the 1980s after his divorce and happily expanded his family with the welcoming of his step daughter, Angela Anderson.

James and Donna Glynne made their life together in Kalispell, Montana and he was a loving and devoted husband. They spent their time taking camping trips on the back of James' motorcycle. James loved to camp, hunt, and create. James was often found in his garage making a table, gun, and even an electric bicycle.

James was predeceased by his parents and his loving wife Donna Glynne. He leaves behind his adoring daughter Ronica Kay, step daughter, Angela, his seven grandchildren: Miriam, Elizabeth, Christina, Laurel, Rachel, Wayne Jr, and Curtis, his nine  great grandchildren: Drew, Anthony, Alexander, Bridget, Brandon, Archer, Adelaine, Arlo, and Murphy, and great great grandson Liam.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend the visitation in the Leonard-Lee Funeral Home 301 E. Blancke Street, Linden, NJ on Sunday, June 2, 2024 from 6 to 8pm. There will be Funeral Service in the funeral home at 7pm.