Big Rapids – Harold D. Pettit, 84, of Big Rapids, passed away Saturday, October 3, 2009, at Mecosta County Medical Center. 

He was born February 27, 1925, in Big Rapids, the son of Walter and Myrtle (Potter) Pettit, and graduated from Big Rapids High School in 1943. During World War II, Harold served as a B-17 and B-29 Air Force Pilot. 

 A state-certified Master Mechanic, Harold worked for Ferris State University for many years until retiring.  He was a long-time member of St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, where he served as an elder, and was also a former member of the Day School Board of Education. 

Harold is survived by his wife of 55 years, Florence (Thomas) Pettit; his children, Joseph (Marti) Benakovich of Grand Blanc, Peggy (Michael) Secory of Spring Lake, Sally (Dave) Dexter of Big Rapids, Harold (Susan) Pettit of Norfolk, VA, and David Pettit of Big Rapids; his sister Lois Lutzke of Big Rapids; 2 brothers, Carl (Barbara) Pettit of Big Rapids, Leon (Janice) Pettit of New Port Richey, FL; and several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents and brother Jack.   

Funeral services will be 11:00 a.m., Thursday, October 8, 2009, at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in Big Rapids, with Rev. John Bookshaw officiating. Harold’s family will greet friends after 10:00 a.m. Thursday at the church.  Memorial contributions in his name may be made for St. Peter’s Lutheran Church or Hospice of Michigan, with envelopes available at the Mohnke Funeral Home.   

Tags: Obituaries //