Edward F.

"Fast Eddie" Petersen

Edward Petersen, known as "Fast Eddie," passed away peacefully on November 4, 2024, after a long illness, surrounded by his family.

Born in Chelsea, MA, on March 15, 1948, to Nora and Frederick Petersen, Eddie grew up in a tight-knit community, where he shared a strong bond with his two siblings, many cousins, and lifelong friends. A proud Chelsea native and a Red Devil at heart, Eddie graduated from Chelsea High in 1968, where he excelled in both football and track. His achievements in track and field earned him a place in the Chelsea High School Hall of Fame.

Eddie worked as a local truck driver for 25 years, navigating the roads of the Boston area in his 18-wheeler, where he took great pride in his area knowledge and the friends he made along the way.

Eddie settled in Quincy, Ma with his then wife Susan, where they raised their three children.  He enjoyed coaching softball and supporting his kids' activities.

After his children grew up, Eddie settled in Roslindale, MA and found great fulfillment working at the Holy Name School in West Roxbury, where he became a beloved figure. His dedication to helping both the children and teachers left a lasting impact, and even after his retirement, Eddie remained close with many friends he had made at the school.

Eddie had an unbreakable bond with his siblings. He looked up to his older brother, Freddie, with immense pride, especially for Freddie's service in the Marine Corps. He shared a special, unshakable connection with his sister, Jean, who was not only his sibling but also his closest friend.

Eddie's relationship with his partner, Raisa, brought him much joy. Together, they enjoyed long walks around Boston, with their favorite place being Revere Beach, where they spent hours enjoying the peaceful surroundings.

Above all, Eddie's greatest joy was spending time with his six grandchildren: Neil, James, Sophia, Colin, Riley, and Lydia. He cherished every moment spent with them, and they were the light of his life.

Known for his storytelling and remarkable memory, Eddie never forgot a detail about anyone he met. He was open about his struggles, which earned him respect from those around him, as he faced life's challenges with honesty and resilience. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Eddie is predeceased by his mother, Nora; his father, Frederick; his brother-in-law, Steve; and his niece, Sarah. He is survived by his children: Nicole Blongiewicz and her husband Chris of Windham, NH; Kristie McCarthy of Pembroke, MA; and Thomas Petersen and his wife Cassie of Norwell, MA. He is also survived by his brother, Frederick Petersen, and partner Denise Nugent of Peabody, MA; his sister, Jean MacDonald of Chelsea, MA; his nieces, Jill Von Handorf and her husband Joe of Richmond, NH, and Meegan Petersen and her husband Craig Massey of Salem, MA; his partner Raisa of Brighton, MA; and his beloved cat Nala, who fits in perfectly at her new home in Windham, NH. He is also survived by many cousins, extended family, and friends.

A private family service will be held, and a celebration of Eddie's life will be announced at a later date.