With sadness, love, and profound gratitude, the family of Robert (Bobby, Bob) John Petry announces that the Vietnam veteran passed away at the age of 73 on July 3, 2023.

Bob was born on November 7, 1949, to George Raymond Petry and Helen Leora Petry (nee Wlodarek). The dear husband of Marguerite (Maggie) Louise Petry (nee Hauck), who were joined in matrimony on January 21, 1980. 

Dearest brother of Barbara Borland (11/21/2007), George Petry III, Richard Petry, Judith Verheecke, Allen Petry, Wanda Lancaster, and beloved infant brother (07/03/1953). 

Cherished Stepfather to Christina Lang, Marc Sandt (01/14/2013), Alicia Brennan, and Kate Throgmorton. Known as Grandpa Bob to 6 grandkids, Great Grandpa to 6 great grandkids. Brother-in-law, Father-in-law, Uncle, Cousin, and Friend.

Bob served during the Vietnam war in the United States Armed Forces-Army from Feb 1970-Dec 1971 with the 586th Engineers BN, 931st Engineers Grp.  He was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with 1 Bronze Star, Vietnam Campaign Medal with 60 Device, Expert (M-16) and 2 Overseas Bars. After his service, he went on to enjoy a career with the Union Pacific Railroad, from which he retired. 

Bob also lived his life quietly and peacefully, enjoying much of his time outdoors around a campfire, or tending to his yard, gardens, and plants. He also loved woodworking and created decorative shelves with elegant details of trees and wildlife. He was kind and gentle, taking care of all living things. He was also very passionate about animals, especially his treasured dogs and cats. He even rescued a baby squirrel and was able to raise it until it reached adulthood. He would capture insects indoors, and carefully release them outside. He made a huge impact on many lives, especially his stepchildren, loving them as his very own. He will be greatly missed. Services to be determined later.

“What we once enjoyed deeply, we can never lose. All that we love deeply, becomes a part of us.” -Helen Keller