Joan V. I. Peterson, 1930-2010

Savannah, Georgia, 23 August 2010

Joan V.I. Peterson died peacefully today at Spanish Oaks Retreat in Savannah, Georgia where she resided since June 2008, of complications from Alzheimer's disease.

Joan was born in Cranford, New Jersey and graduated from Cranford High School. She attended Colby-Sawyer Junior College in New London, New Hampshire, where she majored in art. She also graduated summa cum laude from Temple University-Ambler with a degree in landscape design and conducted her own business, Creative Landscape Design in Berwyn, Pennsylvania, where she lived for 29 years. She was for many years the head gardener at The Owens Thomas House in Savannah and received the Gertrude Hollowbush award for her services.

Joan was very interested in boating, working for Sparkman and Stevens, yacht designers in New York City, and was a founder of the Midget Ocean Racing Club and a recipient of its Hall of Fame Award.

Joan, a twenty-five year Landings resident, was an accomplished tennis player, avid golfer, and enthusiastic world traveler.

She is survived by her loving husband of fifty-four years, Allan M. (Pete) Peterson and devoted sons K. M. (Kris) Peterson and his wife Jan Aceti of Brookline, Massachusetts, and Dirk Peterson of Seattle, Washington.

Reception and Celebration

A reception and celebration of her life for family and friends will be held at The Landings Plantation Club, Azalea room, Friday August 27th, from 4 to 6 p.m. Directions at the Main Gate.

Remembrances

The Owens Thomas House/Telfair Museum, Box 10081, Savannah, GA 31412 or The Trustees Garden Club c/o T. Gongaware, 512 East Bryan St, Savannah, GA 31401.