Nils Peter Peterson June 17, 1936 – August 2, 2025

Nils Peter Peterson, 89, of Marblehead, Massachusetts and later Palm City, Florida passed away peacefully on August 2, 2025, at his home in Harbour Ridge.

Born on June 17, 1936 in Deep Haven, Minnesota to George Lester Peterson and Marguerite Littel, Nils grew up with a quiet curiosity and a love of learning that guided his life. He attended Amherst College, where he earned his bachelor's degree, and later completed his MBA at Harvard Business School.

Nils spent his professional career in finance, beginning with Scutter Stevens & Clark and culminating in 17 meaningful years with Harvard Management Company, where he helped manage the University's endowment portfolio.

In 1963, Nils married Susan Woodfin, with whom he shared more than 60 years of marriage. Together they raised three children—Kirstin (Dave), Gretchen (Aldy), and Nils Jr. (Krista)—and delighted in time spent with their five grandchildren (Oona, Otis, Alden, August & Soren). Many happy times were spent sailing, skiing, traveling, playing golf and coaching soccer side by side with Susan. Life with family and friends brought him joy and lasting memories.

Humble by nature, Nils gave generously of his time and thoughtful counsel to the community he called home, Marblehead, Massachusetts. He supported efforts ranging from fundraising for the local YMCA and Amherst College to helping guide the Salem hospital merger. He was also instrumental in starting the Marblehead Citizens Scholarship Foundation—now part of Dollars for Scholars—which has provided need-based educational scholarships to local students for nearly 40 years.

No services are planned at this time. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to Marblehead Dollars for Scholars in Nils' memory.