Fred Petro

Fred Austin Petro passed away peacefully at home on April 5th, 2026- Easter Sunday! Surrounded by the love of his family.

Fred was born on February 14, 1932, in Mt. Pleasant, Michigan, to Orville and Chloe (Starkey) Petro. He graduated from Farwell High School in 1950 and proudly served his country in the United States Army with the 11th Airborne Division from 1950 to 1953.

Fred’s greatest love story began in childhood when he met Blanche, the love of his life, in elementary school. From sharing classrooms in the 4th and 5th grades to exchanging letters while he served in the military, their bond only grew stronger. He proposed on Valentine’s Day—his birthday—and they were married on August 22, 1952, in Clare, Michigan. Together, they built a beautiful life and shared 73 devoted years of marriage.

Fred worked for Dow Chemical in Midland, Michigan, from 1953 until his retirement in January 1992. After retiring, he and Blanche moved to Colorado, eventually settling in Penrose in 1999, where they continued to build a life filled with family, faith, and simple joys. Fred lived life with energy and purpose—he was never one to sit still. His passion for hunting and fishing kept him a young man until his elderly years, where he then turned to wood working, especially bowls and vases, fly tying, and also reloading. He took great pride in giving his creations away, sharing a piece of himself with everyone he met.

Above all, Fred was a family man. He is survived by his beloved wife, Blanche Petro; his sons, Bill Petro (Nancy) and Brian Petro (Doris); his cherished grandchildren, Andrew (Kara), Elizabeth (Morgan), Logan (Kim), and Maggie (Dustin); and his treasured great-grandchildren, Samuel, Parker, Alice, Katherine, Edward, Layla, Sophia, Landon, and Brielle. He is also survived by his sisters, Marylou Winters and Barbara Wellman, as well as many nieces, nephews, and extended family members.He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Robert Petro.

Fred will be remembered for his strength and resilience, his deep and unwavering Christian faith, his strong personality, and his love for his family whom he kept near to his heart. He will be deeply missed and forever loved. A private family memorial will be held. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Fremont Regional Hospice in Fred’s name.

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