Obituaries

Gerard (Jerry) M. Petras, age 65 of Taylor, died Sunday morning at his home, following an illness. He is survived by his wife, caregiver and best friend, Lou Ann Naughton Petras. The couple were married on May 18, 1996.
Born on December 17, 1952 and raised in Old Forge, Jerry was the son of the late Charles and Jean McGowan Petras. A graduate of Bishop Hannan High School, he then studied business at both Wilkes University and Keystone College, where he would graduate from. He then attended New York University. Jerry’s charm, wit and intelligence led him into a career in sales, working for Tom Hesser Chevrolet and Service Master, prior to becoming ill.
Jerry later became an avid fly fisherman, most proud of reestablishing our local Trout Unlimited, Inc., organization. With Lou Ann by his side, he was able to take many trips through fly fishing tournaments while become an export in the sport along the way. He would eventually teach flytire at Keystone College.
Jerry was a kind, caring and gentle soul. Despite any ailment, he never stopped smiling and refused to ever complain. He was well-refined, impeccably dressed and possessed a brilliant mind. He loved his animals, enjoyed traveling, completing his nightly crossword puzzles in ink, and most of all, spending time with Lou Ann. Passing away peacefully, he will long be missed.
He is also survived by his sister, Ann Donovan of Old Forge; his brother, Charles Petras and wife Sheila of Naples, Florida; his pup and best bud, Ransom Petras; dear friend, Thomas Preno of Scranton; his two cats, Noah and Moses Petras; and many adoring nieces and nephews.
His brother, Robert (Bob) Petras, Sr.; and adored animals, Chaps, Shelby, Morgan and Johnathan Petras, also preceded him in death.
His wife would like to thank Dr. Ferdinand J. Manahan and the entire staff of DaVita Dialysis, as well as Dr. Kevin H. Olsen, for the years of tremendous care given to Jerry.
Funeral services are scheduled to begin on Friday at 9:15AM from the Thomas P. Kearney Funeral Home, Inc., 517 North Main Street, Old Forge, with a 10:00AM Mass of Christian Burial at St. Laurence O’Toole Roman Catholic Church, 620 South Main Street in Old Forge, to be celebrated by Rev. August A. Ricciardi, Pastor. Interment will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery in Old Forge. Relatives and friends may pay their respects on Thursday between 4-6:00PM at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Jerry’s name to the American Diabetes Association, 63 N Franklin St, Wilkes-Barre, Pa., 18701. Please visit the funeral home’s website for directions or to leave an online condolence.