George W. Peterson Jr., 80, passed away June 7, 2014 at Penrose Hospital with his loving wife, daughter, and dog by his side.

George was born on August 29, 1933 in Oak Park, Illinois to George Peterson and Gladys White. He was the oldest of four boys. After graduating from high school, George attended the United States Naval Academy, where he graduated in 1956, the same year he and Sally were married. In July 1957, he earned his Air Force Pilot Wings. Throughout his 22 years in the Air Force, George had the opportunity to fly several aircraft such as the C-124 and the C-130. He obtained his Masters Degree in Aeronautical Engineering from Southern Methodist University in 1964. After retiring from the Air Force in 1977, George worked for a number of Aerospace firms in Southern California, most notably Northrup, where he was instrumental in the B2 program as Chief Engineer.

While in Southern California, George and Sally belonged to the Navy Yacht Club in Long Beach where he enjoyed reconnecting with sailing, a passion he developed at the Naval Academy.

Always the car enthusiast, George found great joy in collecting sports cars. Over the years, his collection included British sports cars, Porches and, his true love, Corvettes.

For the last 20 years, George has resided in Colorado Springs where he has spent years enjoying his retirement by volunteering at Penrose Hospital and Garden of the Gods. George spent the majority of his last few months at Penrose Hospital and it was clear that he was not just a patient to the staff; he was family.

He is survived by his wife, Sally, of 57 years, his two children: Doug (Thelma) and Judy (John), his four grandchildren: Melissa, Megan, Matthew, and Jason, his three brothers: Ron, David, and Alan, as well as his two dogs, Cassie and Cheyenne.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his firstborn son, Brian, who died in 1958.

There will be a Memorial Service at Sunrise United Methodist Church, 2655 Briargate Blvd. on Saturday, June 14, at 11:00AM with a reception to follow.

His interment will be held at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date.

Donations can be made in George's honor to Wounded Warriors or Penrose Hospital's Wall of Honor.