Obituary of Benny Petrillo

Benny Petrillo, 97

On January 31, 2021, Our Lord called Benny Petrillo (Uncle Benny ) as he was affectionately known to many) home.  Born 97 years ago in the Silver Lake section of Belleville to Generosa and Gerardo Petrillo.  He was the youngest of eight siblings.  Benny was a proud and loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. 

Benny was one of the Greatest Generation.  He served his country during World War II. He was one of the heroic soldiers from the 12^th Infantry 4^th Division to land on Omaha Beach during the Normandy offensive.  He became separated from his company for two months and was listed as Missing in Action.  He was wounded in action and received the Purple Heart medal.  He was always considered a hero to his loved ones. 

Once victory was at hand, Benny returned to the United States and married Theresa Pepper.  They settled in Orange where they raised their son, Bart.  They were surrounded by loving family members and neighbors.  They became the central point for Saturday afternoon coffee, Sunday dinners or just to sit in the backyard for a chat.  He had later moved to West Orange and finally to Point Pleasant.  Benny was retired from the NJ Building Laborers union. 

Benny had another passion, golf.  Every weekend you could find him playing 18 holes.  He had many partners and played all over the tri-state area.  (there are probably many more stories from the golf course that are better left untold).

Benny is predeceased by his wife Theresa, and seven brothers and sisters.  He is survived by his loving son, Bart (Elaine); four grandchildren, Megan (Justin) Lavoie, Dana, Jacquelyn and Jennifer and two great-grandchildren, Ryan and Carly Lavoie.  He also leaves many nephews, nieces, golf partners and friends from the Renna House.  To the staff at Crest Pointe Nursing & Rehabilitation, a very special thank you.

Please join the family on Friday, February 5, 2021 from 3 pm – 7 pm at The Dangler Funeral Home of West Orange, 340 Main Street in West Orange. A Mass celebrating his life will be held Saturday, February 6, 2021 at 11:00 am at Our Lady of Lourdes Church in West Orange.  Interment at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Bloomfield will follow.  Rest peacefully, until we see you again.

During the COVID 19 pandemic, all persons entering the Funeral Home will be required to wear a face mask or face covering throughout their stay. Likewise, all social distancing rules must be adhered to. Gathering together in groups should not happen. A continued flow throughout the facility will aid in keeping all of us safe, with everyone having an opportunity to pay their respects.