James J. Petrarca

James J. Petrarca, 64 of Sweet Root Road, Bedford, died Thursday, July 1, 2010 at Shadyside Hospital in Pittsburgh.  He was born September 29, 1945 in Latrobe, son of Antoinette (Demalta) Petrarca of Northford, CT, and the late James J. Petrarca.  On June 29, 1968 in New Kensington, he married Karen Lohr, and she survives along with four children; Kelli A. Petrarca, Kerri L. wife of Robert Hanks, both of Bedford, Jason M. Petrarca and wife Britta Milks of Doylestown and J. D. Petrarca and girlfriend Kim Ream of Bedford.  Also surviving are his two favorite grandchildren; Bryan and Jenna Hanks, a sister Barbara wife of Kenneth Hennessey of Northford, CT, a brother David of Meadville, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Mr. Petrarca was a member of St. Thomas Catholic Church and a member of the Church Finance Committee.  He was also a member of the Bedford Elks Lodge #1707, Bedford TWP Municipal Authority, Bedford County Sportsman’s Club and the Chestnut Ridge Gun Club, and was an avid golfer.  He was retired from Kennemetal Inc. after 41 years of service, retiring as Director of Global Manufacturing.

Funeral Mass: Monday, July 5, 2010 at 10:00 a.m. from St. Thomas Catholic Church in Bedford with Father Donald Dusza, celebrant.  Burial at St. Thomas Catholic Cemetery.  There will be no visitation.  In lieu of flowers, those wishing may make contributions to Camp Cadet of Bedford County, P. O. Box 614, Bedford, PA 15522, or the Humane Society of Bedford County, 1108 Lutzville Road, Everett, PA  15537.  Our online guest book is available at www.berkebilefuneralhome.com.