Vivian L Peterson, February 29, 1924 — January 23, 2019

Vivian L. Peterson February 29, 1924 – January 23, 2019 Share this obituary Sign Guestbook| View Guest Book Entries Vivian Lucille Peterson (nee Zrike), 94, passed away peacefully at her home in Ridgewood, N. J. on January 23. She was the loving mother of Clifford Philip Peterson of Florida and Hillary Anne Peterson of Ridgewood, who was devotedly by her mother’s side throughout her final illness. Vivian was predeceased by her beloved husband Harlan (“Pete”) Peterson in 2004.

She was the beloved daughter of the late Philip and Edna Zrike, who raised Vivian and her brother Philip in Brooklyn, N.Y., where she lived before moving to Ridgewood in 1964. With boundless energy, Vivian was an optimist who was always looking forward to the future. Vivian, also known as “Viv” and “Aunt Vivi” to her many friends, old and young, welcomed guests into her life robustly, connecting with them in a caring and uniquely unselfish manner that left many holding her friendship among the greatest honors and joys.

While there was no place she loved better than her home, Vivian made frequent trips to New York City to enjoy the theater and other cultural offerings. She greatly enjoyed traveling with members of her family, especially cruises on the Cunard line. Vivian’s giving nature was evident too, in her many civic commitments.

She was a volunteer with the Red Cross and Meals on Wheels in North Jersey and a stalwart and beloved presence at Kurth Cottage in Ridgewood’s Valley Hospital. She also was very active with the North Jersey Opera Society as well as other local groups. Always true to the life-affirming spirit of her nickname, “Viv” will be profoundly missed, but also forever celebrated by the many family members, neighbors and friends whose lives she touched.

Everything, simply everything, was more fun with Viv. Vivian is survived by her beloved daughter Hillary and her son Clifford (Lois), her granddaughter Rachael (Erik) Lagerquist of Florida and her great-granddaughters Courtney and Hannah Lagerquist. She is also survived by nephews Christopher and Kenneth Zrike, sons of Philip and Mary Lou Zrike and Robert and William Peterson, sons of Richard and Judy Peterson.

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