Obituary of Teresa M. Pedersen

On Tuesday September 6, 2016, Teresa DeSantis Raponi Pedersen, age 75, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family after her nearly two-decade battle with leukemia and non-hodgkins lymphoma. Her courageous and relentless determination were an inspiration to all who knew and loved her. She was born on April 8, 1941 to Charles and Mary (Bucci) DeSantis. She grew up in a loving Italian household and was extremely proud of her heritage. She graduated from Strong Vincent High School in 1959 and was a member of the National Honor Society. On June 1, 1963 she married Lawrence J. Raponi and their union gifted the world with two very special daughters, Mary Beth and Jeannine Raponi. During her working career, she held a variety of positions, including division secretary at GTE, administrative assistant to the Erie County Executive, and in semi-retirement an office assistant at the Erie Parking Authority. One of her greatest pleasures was opening her home for dinner gatherings on holiday and special occasions. Her graciousness as a hostess was enjoyed by friends and family alike. She married Gerald Pedersen on March 21, 1987. During their nearly thirty years of marriage they faced life with love and devotion to each other. In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her stepson Gregory Pedersen and his wife Valerie. She is survived by her husband Gerald, her daughters Mary Beth Holt (Craig) and Jeannine Zimmer (Robert), and her loving granddaughters Alyssa Zimmer (fiancé Charlie Johns) and Arica Zimmer. Also survived by her stepsons David and Michael (Tami) Pedersen and their children Henry, Holly, Zachary, and Lauren Pedersen. She also leaves behind Francis Vitale, a cherished long-time family friend who was like a son to her. The family would like to thank the special friends who prepared meals and checked on Teresa and Gerald throughout her illness. Very special thanks and gratitude go to Dr. Jan Rothman and his staff at the Regional Cancer Center. It was with wisdom and compassion that we were able to enjoy many additional years of precious time with her. Friends may call at the Dusckas-Martin Funeral Home and Crematory Inc. 4216 Sterrettania Rd. Erie, PA 16506, on Thursday from 2 to 5 and 7 to 9 PM, and are invited to a graveside service at Trinity Cemetery on Friday morning at 11:00 AM. Memorial contributions may be made to the Regional Cancer Center 2500 West 12th St. Erie, PA 16505.