Former Sitkan Steve Petro Dies in Washington at 74

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Category: Obituaries

Created on Friday, 22 November 2024 15:21

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Stephen Brian Petro

Stephen Brian Petro, a former Sitka resident, passed away on November 12, 2024, in Port Orchard, Washington. He was 74.
Steve was born on a warm, sunny day in Seattle, Washington, on July 29, 1950. He arrived in Sitka via Grumman Goose with his mom, Margaret Hope (Petro) McVey. He was greeted by his dad, Bob Petro, his grandparents Andrew and Tillie Hope, and his big sister. Thus began Steve’s life in Sitka.
 He attended elementary school in the new Baranof School, which was right across the street from the family home, located at what is now the Market Center parking lot. He enjoyed being inside on those rainy days when he could wait at home for the bell to ring and still make it to line-up on time.
 He wasn’t so lucky for high school – the Petros moved to their new home, built by his dad, and the high school was no longer across from the “tennis court” near Baranof but was now a healthy walk away.
Steve worked a number of local jobs. He was the guy driving the big trucks with construction materials for projects around town, most notably the Green Lake project and the remodel of Mt. Edgecumbe High School. Somewhere in the mix of jobs he headed to Anchorage to work on the pipeline, again driving those heavy loads.
 When he returned to Sitka he spied Pam Stromme working in her family’s shoe store and the rest is history. Steve and Pam were married at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church on August 4, 1984, and spent 40 years together. 
 After their first son was born the family headed to Tacoma where Steve attended Bates Barber School. After he completed courses and passed state exams, the family returned to Sitka where Steve took out the clippers and made friends. His customers were treated to Steve’s stories and delighted in his quick wit. He was a personable guy
 He dearly loved his motorcycle, and could be seen riding through town with his dachshund pal, Oscar Mayer, cozily nestled in the basket.
Steve loved going out on the boat to fish with friends and, not surprisingly, Oscar went out fishing as well. He would stand on the bow loudly barking to alert Steve to the fish jumping. After a successful trip Oscar sat on a stool near the sink to be sure Steve properly prepared the fish for freezing. A kind and caring person, Steve showed love in many ways.
  Steve enjoyed driving around but Sitka roads are limiting. Access to major health care was considered and the Petros moved to Port Orchard, Washington. Although Sitka would always be home, retirement years in Port Orchard allowed different activities. In addition to driving the car to explore miles and miles of roads, Steve enjoyed growing vegetables in the garden.
He could repair anything, and enjoyed tinkering in the garage. He had a knack for cooking and never fixed a meal anyone complained about. He was a true sports enthusiast and enjoyed watching football and baseball from his recliner. A seasoned armchair athlete.
 Steve is survived by his wife, Pam, of Port Orchard; son Sam Petro of Port Orchard; his sisters Marcia Lupro of Port Orchard and Lisa Killinger of Sitka; sister-in-law Yolanda Eldora of Missoula, Missouri; and grandson Khayree Petro, of Sacramento, California.
He was preceded in death by his son Alex Petro and brother Donald Petro.
 Steve leaves a legacy of love for his family. “We will cherish the memories of his presence with his big smile and hugs,”they said. “He was a beloved husband, father, brother, uncle, grandpa and friend. He had such a warm spirit and loved to entertain with his wit and humor. He will be greatly missed.”

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