Phenie Anthony Petta

Phenie Anthony Petta, 73 of Freeport, IL passed away suddenly after a short battle with lymphoma. He was born January 23, 1944 in Freeport, IL to Phenie G. and Mary L (Secker) Petta. He graduated from Aquin High School in 1962. He served with the United States Navy from 1964-1968, 2 years in Puerto Rico and 2 years in Maryland. He then married Diane (Pizzolato) Petta on June 21, 1969 at St Mary's Catholic Church. Together they raised three daughters, his pride and joys. He served a 5 year apprenticeship with Local 23 Plumbers and Pipefitters. He worked for Local 23 until retirement. After retirement he enjoyed driving for Barkau Automotive. Phenie is survived by wife Diane, daughters Amy Merrill, Dawn and John Carlson and Kara and Jason Carlisle, as well as his beloved six grandchildren. Bryce, Brennan and Brant Carlson and Brady, Meghan and Jillian Carlisle. He is also survived by five brothers and sisters-Kathy (Gary) Davis, Mike (Sue) Petta, Bob(Nancy) Petta, Mary M. Hartman, Teresa Petta, brother in law- Dave ( Mary) Pizzolato, sister in law- Debra ( Gary) Fontana, and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by parents- Phenie G. and Mary Petta, in-laws- Leo and Florence Pizzolato, son-in-law- Trent Merrill, and nephew- Craig Pizzolato. He was a member of the Eagles Club, St. Thomas Aquinas Church and an devoted Aquin High School Supporter. Phenie was an avid Packer fan, Nascar fan, any sports that he could watch his grandkids participate in, loved crossword puzzles, gardening, lunches with his brothers, and car rides with friends and family. His most favorite trip was his annual 64 year tradition of going to "The Lakes" with the entire Petta Family. A funeral mass will be 10:30 A.M. Monday July 17, 2017 with Fr. Ken Anderson officiating. Visitation will be from 3-7:00 P.M. Sunday at Burke-Tubbs Funeral Home in Freeport, with a scripture service beginning at 3:00 P.M.; there will also be a visitation from 9:30 A.M. until the time of service at the church. Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery. In lieu of flowers a memorial has been established in his memory.