It is with profound love and deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Donald Vernon Peterman, on August 7, 2026, in Fleming Island, FL, at the age of 89.

Donald was born on May 24, 1937, in Elkton, MD, to Delbert and Anna Peterman. He grew up in Charlestown, MD, where he was an active member of the United Methodist Church and Choir, and a Volunteer Firefighter for the Charlestown Fire Company. He spent many summers working (and having fun) at Holloway Beach and Murphy's Beach. He worked at the Mobil Gas Station in town and loved driving around in his red 1955 Chevy Bel Air Convertible. He accumulated many cherished memories growing up in Charlestown, and enjoyed sharing them with others.

He graduated from North East High School in 1955, and soon after, married Shelby Davis. He joined the U.S. Air Force in 1960, and was stationed at Kirtland AFB, Albuquerque, NM, working as a Jet Aircraft Mechanic. After leaving the Air Force in 1964, he moved to North East, MD, and worked at Aberdeen Proving Ground for Ross Aviation, where he was involved in Army Flight Test Programs. In 1971, he joined the Delaware Army National Guard, and eventually retired from there as an Aircraft Maintenance Supervisor in 1997. He earned many awards and accolades while proudly serving his country for over 31 years.

Donald was a devoted father and a loving uncle to many nieces and nephews. He was a kind, caring, thoughtful man with a great sense of humor - a natural jokester who lightened the mood with his witty personality. His greatest joy was spending time with family and spoiling his many granddogs. The granddogs adored him. They were elated every time "Pop-Pop" walked through the door. His love for them had no limits. He enjoyed dining out and exploring new restaurants with family and friends - from which many happy memories were created. He took great pride in working with his hands, and could build or repair just about anything. He took on projects big and small, and was always happy to help others with their projects.

He lived in Wilmington, DE for many years. As he traveled back and forth between Delaware and Florida, he embraced the “snowbird” life, eventually moving to Florida in 2018 to be with his kids and granddogs.

Donald is survived by his loving daughter, Natalie Peterman; son, Donald Peterman, Jr.; sister, Bobbi Peterman Kohler (Russell); brothers, Wayne Peterman and Gene Peterman (Debbie); former wife, Shelby Davis; and honorary brother, Scott Smith.

Donald was preceded in death by his father, Delbert Peterman; mother, Anna Clayton Peterman; and honorary brother, Robert Davis, Jr.

We are comforted knowing he is in the presence of God and those who preceded him. He will be dearly missed. We look forward to the day we are together again.

Cremation will be provided by Broadus Raines Funeral Home in Green Cove Springs, FL. A celebration of life will be scheduled at a later date.