Richard Petrak

Richard Petrak

March 26, 1948 - November 25, 2015

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U.S. VeteranRichard “Dick” Petrak, 67, of Platteville, died on Wednesday, November 25, 2015 at home. Memorial services will be 5:00 p.m. Monday, November 30, 2015 at the Melby Funeral Home & Crematory, Platteville, where military rites will be accorded by VFW Post #5274 and American Legion Post #42. Rev. Jeff Pedersen will officiate. Burial will be at Hillside Cemetery, Platteville. Friends may call from 4:00 p.m. until the time of service on Monday at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to the Richard “Dick” Petrak Memorial Fund. Online condolences may be made at www.melbyfh.com.

Dick was born on March 26, 1948 in New York, the son of John and Mildred Mae (McGee) Petrak. Dick was united in marriage to Mary Ann Olthafer on September 29, 2000 at Grace Lutheran Church in Dodgeville. Dick enjoyed woodworking, fishing, tying flies, making new toys for his cats, and reading. You could often find him at Barns and Noble buying books and magazines, where he had a special love for science fiction. He was known to many children as Santa Claus, in the off season, because of his bushy beard. Dick was also active in the Healing Waters Group through the VA. He is survived by his wife, Mary Ann, of Platteville; son, CPO Thomas (Melissa) Petrak, and their children Ashley and Kaelynn, of southern California; daughter, Rebecca Davis, and her son Kyle, also of southern California; four siblings; and aunt, Carol Edwards of Avis, PA. He was preceded in death by his parents.

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LR
Linda Grindell Ray
Other •
Dear Mary Ann, Just learned the news about your husband's passing. My sympathy to you and your family. Linda Grindell Ray
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Nancy Broughton
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Dear Mary Ann, I am so saddened to learn of Dick's passing. Please know my thoughts and prayers are with you. With caring hugs...Nancy
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Sharon Shea
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Dick was a long time supporter of the Iowa County Humane Society. He made many pies for our bake sales and fundraising events. He had a special place in his heart for cats and would bring fresh catnip to the shelter. God Bless. You remain in our hearts.
RT
randys service and towing
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We are so sorry to hear about your loss. Dick was a great customer and will be missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and the family. From the guys from Randys
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Mary (Kinney) and Bill Hake
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Dear Mary Ann, so sorry to learn about your husband, Dick. Rest your tired head on the arms of our Lord, he is always near. Our sympathy to all your family. Bill and Mary
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Don Marsh
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Truly sad to hear. I was blessed to have known Dick over the years through the Healing Waters fly fishing classes. He gave us much to learn when it comes to generosity. I have not met someone who gave so freely to any and all. His consistent kind nature will be missed.

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