A. Wesley Petersen, 90, of Sheffield, died on September 29, 2025. He was born on August 10, 1935, in Hollis, N.Y., the son of Al and Millie Petersen.
Wes grew up in Sheffield and graduated from Sheffield High School in 1954. Soon after, he proudly served his country in the U.S. Army from 1958 to 1964.
On October 27, 1956, Wes married Betty Gibbs, and together they built a loving life filled with family, friends, work, and travel.
Wes worked hard his whole life and took great pride in everything he did. Over the years, he worked for West’s Farm Equipment and Mt. Everett Lumber before becoming Superintendent of Buildings & Grounds at Berkshire School, where he stayed until retiring in 1997.
A dedicated community member, Wes volunteered as a firefighter for 26 years, delivered Meals on Wheels for 19 years, and coached Pee Wee Little League. He was known for his outgoing personality, love of good company, and willingness to lend a hand whenever someone needed help.
In his free time, Wes enjoyed playing setback with friends, hunting, gardening, cutting wood with his son, and especially traveling with his wife Betty. He loved to stay busy and be outdoors, and he cherished time spent with family and friends.
Wes is survived by his loving wife of 68 years Betty G. Petersen, his daughter Tamar P. Schrager, his son Andrew Petersen and his partner Kim Lavoie, and his sister Ilamay P. Bartholomew. He also leaves behind many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, Al and Millie Petersen; his sister Joan Petersen; and his nephew Daryl Bartholomew.
Family and friends are invited to calling hours on Thursday, October 9, 2025, from 4 to 6 p.m., at Finnerty & Stevens Funeral Home in Great Barrington. A funeral service will be held on Friday, October 10, 2025, at 10 a.m., at the funeral home, conducted by Rev. Jill Graham, followed by burial at Sheffield Center Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Sheffield Fire or HospiceCare in the Berkshires in care of Finnerty & Stevens Funeral Home, 426 Main Street, Great Barrington, MA 01230. To share memories or send condolences, please visit the funeral home’s website.
