Elizabeth A. Bologna

In Loving Memory of Elizabeth A. Bologna

“Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, love leaves a memory no one can steal.”

Elizabeth (Betty) Bologna, 77, of Philadelphia, passed away on April 8th, 2026 after a long battle with COPD. Liz was born on December 4, 1948 to Richard and Helen Peterman in Philadelphia, PA. She was one of fourteen children in her family. After graduating from St. Michael Commercial School in 1968, Liz joined the US Army in September of 1968 stationed out of Ft Myers, VA. She was ranked as a Specialist Four (SP4 or E-4) in the Women’s Army Corp (WAC) as a skilled enlisted technician in medical administration. She was honorably discharged in 1971 after serving 2 years. Liz then resided in Elmhurst, NY for almost 16 years before returning back to Philadelphia with her son, Mark.

After returning to Philadelphia, Betty quickly settled back into the cherished family tradition of Sunday football. She was a devoted fan of the San Francisco 49ers, proudly cheering on her favorite quarterbacks, Joe Montana and later Steve Young. She could often be found in the basement alongside the men, fully immersed in the game, where she fit right in and enjoyed every moment of the camaraderie and competition.

She had a deep appreciation for her work in the trucking industry and took great pride in all that she did. In her free time, Liz enjoyed relaxing with her favorite television programs, including the Game Show Network, the FBI series, Chicago Fire, Chicago Med, NCIS, Bull, Grimm, The Last Ship and, of course, her beloved Hallmark movies. She also had a passion for reading—those who knew her well knew exactly the kinds of books she cherished. Each morning, she looked forward to reading The Philadelphia Inquirer and completing its puzzles, a simple ritual that brought her great joy.

She had a fondness for some of life’s simple pleasures, especially her favorite foods—hamburgers, fresh tomatoes and cucumbers, macaroni and cheese, pizza steaks, and fries. You can't forget her favorite veal dinner from Montesini's. She also had a special love for sweets, from vanilla cake to cheesecakes, danishes, and cream puffs galore. Anything caramel was her favorite, especially a caramel sundae from McDonald’s.

She also had a love for scratch-offs and the lottery, always confident she knew the lucky number and enjoying every moment of playing.

Family meant everything to her, and she found great joy in gatherings and celebrations with loved ones. She had her favorite seat in the house, perfectly positioned with a clear view of the front door, so she always knew who was coming and going. Though affectionately nicknamed “Aunt Weezer” for her playful intolerance of whiny children, she loved them all dearly and held a special place in her heart for each one. She especially treasured visits from family and friends, as they made her feel truly special.

Betty was preceded in death by her parents, Richard and Helen Peterman, her siblings: Margaret “Sue” (James) Collins, Marie Gavula, Catherine “Cass” Arroyo, Joseph Peterman, Sandra Cannizzaro, James “Barney” Peterman and Carol Ann Peterman.

Elizabeth is survived by her son, Mark (Kate) Bologna. Her many brothers and sisters: Mary (John) Flaton, Stephen “Pete” (Theresa) Peterman, Richard “Itchy” (Diane) Peterman, Donna (Jurgen) Rohrich, Janet “Jae” Peterman and Craig (Dawn) Peterman along with her sister-in-law: Diane Peterman, her brother-in-laws: Donald “Moe” Gavula and Jaime “Kookie” Arroyo. Betty also leaves behind her 2 godsons: John (Megan) and Michael (Jessica) Flaton, her special niece, Melissa (Donny) Pierce, as well as many more nieces and nephews. Liz leaves behind a brokenhearted, supportive group of relatives and countless friends.

Liz, or Betty as many family members knew her, will be deeply loved beyond measure and forever missed in the hearts of all who knew her.

Please join the Bologna family on Friday, April 17, 2026 from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm at Delaware Valley Cremation Center, 7350 State Road, Philadelphia, PA 19136, for a gathering of remembrance in honoring and celebrating Elizabeth's life. A service for her will begin at 7:00 pm, followed by time for refreshments and food, until 9:00pm. Elizabeth’s family will be accessible to receive the loving comfort of your condolences, remembrance, and support throughout the evening.

The committal service for Elizabeth Bologna will be held at Washington Crossing National Cemetery on Friday, May 15, 2026, at 9:30 a.m. Guests are kindly asked to arrive at least 15 minutes prior to the scheduled service time.