Richard Joseph Peterson, 61, of West Springfield, passed away on Thursday, October 23, 2014 at his home. Richard was born in Springfield MA on March 27, 1953 to Wilfred Joseph Peterson and Ruth Lopez. He was a graduate of Putnam Vocational High School, and he served in the US Marines. Richard is survived by his children Jason and Erin, his siblings Lori, Daniel and Barbara, as well as his grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. Richard was a simple man who loved his family and friends and his birds and will be missed. There will be no calling hours.