Nerino J. Petro

Nerino “Pete” Petro, 91, of Rockford went to be with the Lord on Saturday, February 10, 2018, surrounded by his family.

Born May 20, 1926 in Rockford, the son of Donato and Allegrina Di Pietrantonio. Pete grew up in the Great Depression, taking his place among the Greatest Generation fighting in Europe during WWII as part of the U.S. Army’s 102nd Infantry Division and served in the Army again during the Korean War. A Rockford resident for his entire life, Pete married Mary Anne Thoreson of Durand in Ringgold, Ga., on Jan. 23, 1957. He worked for Central Illinois Power & Gas Co. and Rockford Blacktop in the 1950’s. He owned and operated Central Park (Centro Ace) Hardware for almost 50 years with his wife. Pete helped start the Rockford Journal and was known and loved by many in Rockford and the West Side. He was a successful business man and customers and friends were always welcome at the hardware store especially the holidays to share time together with Tom and Jerry's. In addition to Central Park Hardware, Pete and Mary Anne operated a number of commercial businesses in Illinois and Wisconsin. Pete was happiest when he was with friends and family and had a number of lifelong friends including his best friend, Wayne H. Erickson, Warren Zeigle, Bud Peterson and many more wherever he travelled. He touched and influenced many lives and will be missed.

Survived by: daughter, Meri Beth (David) Petro-Nichols of Rockford; son, Nerino J. (Mary) Petro Jr. of Belvidere; granddaughter, Zoe Nichols, whom he loved very much; and many nieces and nephews that held a special place in his heart. Special thanks to Meri Beth who was his constant companion and care giver along with the ladies that helped provide his care these last few years, and to Liz Dickinson who brought him much happiness. Predeceased by his parents, brothers; Peter and Nick; and sister Hilda.

Services will be celebrated at 11:00 A.M. Thursday, February 15, at the Fitzgerald Funeral Home and Crematory, 1860 S. Mulford Road, with Father William Wentink officiating. Burial in Calvary Catholic Cemetery. Visitation will be from 9:00 – 11:00 A.M. Thursday, February 15, in the funeral home. Family and friends may extend online condolences at www.fitzgeraldfh.com.