Obituary of Robert Petit

Robert Joseph Petit was born in Monroe, Michigan on September 8, 1952. He was the son of the late Robert Charles and Catherine (Schneider) Petit. Robert graduated Monroe High School in 1970. He married the love of his life, the former Belinda Bailey on February 4, 1978. From this union came the birth of three children. For more than twenty five years Robert was employed as a laborer for Downriver Castings. After their closing he took employment with Gibraltar Schools as a janitor. Robert loved woodworking. He built many items over the years and gave them as gifts; from picnic tables which he painted with U of M colors, to toys for the kids, and sand boxes. He loved home improvement projects and was an excellent painter. He was an avid coin collector. As a young man he found a passion for drawing and his cartoon characters were brilliant. Robert was a devoted University of Michigan fan. He loved sports and loved playing them with his children and grandchildren. He especially enjoyed watching football and baseball. Robert was well known for his generosity and always made sure everyone was fed and provided for. He was blessed with the gift of gab with anyone and everyone and could put a smile on all faces. He always kept everyone going with his great story telling and amazed others with his recall of dates. Robert Joseph Petit, age 60 of Newport passed away at 2:13am on Saturday, February 16, 2013 at University of Michigan Hospital. In addition to his parents his passing was preceded by a daughter: Holly Petit. To cherish his memory Robert leaves his loving wife: Belinda of Newport; three children: Patrick (Mary) Petit of Tecumseh, Brianne (Ryan) Ort of Perrysburg, and Veronica Petit of Tucson, Arizona; four sisters: Brenda Vince, Renee (Tom) Treece, Annette (Rick) Barlow, and Denise Petit; one brother: Rick (Louann) Petit; and six beloved grandchildren: Mariah, Alexzander, Donovan, Adrienna, Olivia, Korin. Friends may gather from 2:00-8:00pm on Wednesday, February 20, 2013 at Merkle Funeral Service, 2442 North Monroe (734) 384-5185. He will lie in state from 9:00am until the Mass of the Resurrection at 10:00am on Thursday, February 21 at St. Patrick Catholic Church 2996 Labo. Cremation will follow. In lieu of flowers memorials are suggested to the Michigan Humane Society. Online condolences, share a photo, or make a donation by visiting www.merklefs.com; Online Tributes page.