Charles "Steve" Peterson was born on June 1, 1949, to the union of John and Corrobul Peterson in Blakey, Georgia. He and his family moved to Florida when he was a young child. Steve accepted and loved Christ throughout his life. He retired from GTE/Verizon after 33 years of service. He was a proud member of the Masonic Lodge #91 Lakeland. He was a lifelong fan of the Dallas Cowboys. We blame the Cowboys playoff performance for Steve's untimely demise. He joined the Lord on Saturday January 28, 2017. He was preceded in death by his father John, mother Corrobul, sister Carissa and brothers David and James. He leaves to cherish his memory: his beloved wife Carol, son Steven Jr, daughter Michele, step-daughter Lisa and step-son Damon. Grandchildren: Amber, Justine, Triston, Cheyenne, Zachary and Kyleigh. He also leaves brothers Bob and Wally and sisters Jane, Mernell, Hedy and Dell; and a host of other beloved family members and dear friends. Steve's family would like to thank the doctors and nurses at Brandon Hospital as well as the wonderful Hospice caregivers that enriched not only Steve's life but also the lives of his family during this difficult time. Steve's family asks that you hug your loved ones, sing a song, enjoy nature, love God and celebrate all the beauty that this life holds. That's what he would wish for you. Services will be held on Friday February 3 at Simmons Loop Baptist Church 6610 Simmons Loop Riverview FL 33578. Visitation at 10:00 am and service at 11:00 am. Masonic Rites and burial immediately following at Fellowship Cemetery 10232 State Rd 674 Lithia, FL 33547.