David N. Peterson ’58

Body

DAVID NORTHRUP PETERSON DIED of a heart attack at his hilltop home in Cortlandt, N.Y., Dec. l 9, 1993. His heart condition had compelled him to retire as a U.S. Air pilot three years ago.

David prepared for Princeton at Long Branch H.S. in Syracuse and was a Natl. Merit Scholar. At Princeton, he was a mechanical engineer, but left in sophomore year for the air force. He served for six years, during which he attained the rank of captain and became one of the youngest military air transport service transport commanders. He returned to Princeton briefly, not graduating, but joining Cottage Club. David's civilian flying career began with Mohawk Airlines, a predecessor to U.S. Air.

In retirement, David continued to indulge his love for things mechanical, especially a collection of nine antique automobiles, and a limousine service he and his family had begun only recently.

To his wife of 32 years, Karin; his sons Andrew, Erik, Daryl, and Darven; his brother Carl '56; and his mother, Mrs. Carl Peterson Sr., the class extends its deepest sympathies.

No responses yet

Join the conversation

Plain text

Full name and Princeton affiliation (if applicable) are required for all published comments. For more information, view our commenting policy. Responses are limited to 500 words for online and 250 words for print consideration.

Paw in print

Image
Terri Sewell ’86 at the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, stands next to a portrait of civil rights leader John Lewis.
The Latest Issue

November 2026

History is in Terri Sewell ’86’s hands; campus mental health culture; the two Princetons.