JAMES A. PETERSON, Ph.D. age 75, passed from this earth into the care of the Almighty on Tuesday, December 28, in the palliative care unit of Aultman Hospital from complications of leukemia. He was born on June 4, 1935, in Ashtabula, OH, to John and Esther Johnson Peterson. A graduate of Ashtabula High School, he received a B.A. from Upsala College, an M.A. from Western Reserve University, and a Ph.D. in English literature from Kent State University, with additional work at Augustana Theological Seminary and the University of Iowa. He was a member of the English faculty at Kent State Stark for 25 years. An area resident for 42 years, he was a former member and president of the Lake Local Board of Education. Following retirement, he traveled extensively in Sweden, the birthplace of his father. Most important to him were his family and his faith. He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Nancy, and daughter Dr. Lesa Beamer (granddaughter Keya) of Columbia MO, and son Jim Peterson (wife Shohreh) of Alexandria VA. Also surviving are brother John Peterson of Ashtabula and seven special nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Viola Riley, and nephew John Peterson. A life-long Lutheran, he is currently a member of Advent Lutheran Church, Uniontown, where a memorial service will be held on Sunday, January 16, at 3 p.m., with the Rev. George Gaiser officiating. Friends may visit the family one hour before the service. Cremation has taken place, and internment will be in Edgewood Cemetery in Ashtabula. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Lutheran World Relief, % Advent Lutheran Church, 1516 Edison St. NW, Uniontown 44685, or to a charity of your choice. Arnold 330-877-9364 www.arnoldfuneralhome.com