Gaetano John Petti - Son, Brother, Husband, Father, Grandfather, Great Grandfather, Jeweler, Friend - died on Sunday, July 16. The two words that best describe Guy Petti would be DRIVE & MOTIVATION. Born in Everett, Massachusetts, Guy came from very humble beginnings that would eventually shape his ideas and priorities. As a child of the depression, Guy needed to drop out of grammar school and assist the family with their needs. His father was a jeweler and took him under his wing, where he began to learn the trade. Guy worked tirelessly to perfect his skills and grow his own business. It would be this trade that would bring him the most satisfaction and allow him to achieve his dreams.
Guy’s one goal was to have a family and to provide them with an education and a lifestyle greater than his own; he achieved all of this. As a father of three, Guy worked three jobs to ensure his children had the best he could afford. Long twelve-hour workdays were the norm and any free time was often used to sleep and rest up for the next job. He may have missed out on little league games and dance recitals but he was being the best father he knew how by working hard and providing for his children. There was, however, two weeks a year that Guy was a family man, and that was summer vacation. Without exception, the first two weeks in July were reserved for the family. He traveled with his family in a 1976 Chevy station wagon throughout New England and as far south as North Carolina. While on vacation, Guy always made sure his family visited well-known museums and historical sites; he valued the importance of the arts and sciences. He loved swimming with his children in the hotel pool and always looked forward to dining out at restaurants on vacation. Nothing brought Guy more pleasure than a great meal topped off by a delicious dessert.
In 1979, Guy was commissioned to design and craft a cross and ring for Pope John Paul’s visit to Boston. After some hesitation, he agreed and created a beautiful, yet humble, ring and cross. Today, the cross and ring sit in the gift room at the Vatican in Rome with special recognition given to him. Guy was known for his extraordinary craftsmanship and beautiful creations. He crafted jewelry for celebrities, local politicians and the common man alike. Those who own a Guy Petti original understand the value and will treasure it always.
In his retirement, Guy enjoyed tending to his flower and vegetable garden and traveling to local casinos. Whether it was a nickel or a quarter slot, Guy always loved the excitement and thrill of the win!
His determination and drive is now reflected in his children’s accomplishments. Not only are they are scientists, engineers, and managers; but more importantly they are parents and grandparents. They are well rounded, prosperous, fun loving individuals. In short, his children are everything Guy hoped for and his sacrifices and dedication to a dream was never in vain.
Rest in Peace, Guy.
Guy was the beloved husband of Barbara A. (Scoppe) Petti. Devoted father of Michael Petti and his wife Toby of Chicago, IL, David Petti and his wife Becky of Idaho, Sandra Petti and her husband Bob Keating of Stoneham. The loving grandfather of Alex, Samantha, Megan and Andrew Petti. Cherished "Mr. Guy" to Christopher, Nicholas, Scott, Mathew, Amelia, Noah and Zachary Keating, Bianca and Andrew Macdonald. Brother of the late Floviano and Joseph Petti, and Evelyn Patulia. He was also survived by many loving nieces and nephews.
His funeral service will be conducted in the Dello Russo Funeral Home, 306 Main St., MEDFORD Thursday, July 20th at 10 AM. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend. Services will conclude with burial at Oak Grove Cemetery, Medford. Visiting hours Wednesday 4 thru 8 PM.
In lieu of flowers contributions may be sent in Gaetano's name to the American Diabetes Association, 2451 Crystal Drive, Suite 900, Arlington, VA 22202. Late Army veteran of the Korean War.