Henry Petersen

Dr. Henry J. Petersen, from Cedar Crest in Pompton Plains (formerly of Wayne) passed away peacefully at the age of 93 on Saturday, June 4, 2022.

Henry was a teacher for over 40 years with most of his career teaching math at Wayne Valley and Wayne Hills High Schools.  During this time, he received his PhD from Columbia University in Education and was instrumental in bringing computers to the classroom and the Wayne Board of Education Administration in the 1970’s.  He retired from the Wayne School system in 1985 after heading up the Math department for K – 12 for over 10 years.

Family was very important to Henry and is survived by his daughter Nancy Tambe and her husband Nick of Ringwood, NJ and son Henry Petersen and wife Lynn of Somerville, Mass and Granddaughter Nicole Mueller.  He is also remembered fondly by his stepchildren Heather Kahl, Peter Mohn, Douglas Mohn, Jonathan Mohn, Dwight Mohn and many grandchildren and great grandchildren.  Henry also leaves behind his partner Betsy Meeder from Cedar Crest.  Betsy was always by his side during the last 6 years taking care of him.

Henry lived an amazing life and enjoyed so many activities.  He loved teaching and mentoring kids, was an Eagle Scout and became a Boy Scout leader before he had children.  He loved the outdoors, camping, hiking, and gardening.  One of his biggest passions was woodworking and making furniture for his family.

Donations can be made to the American Heart Association.