Landon Ellery Petrie Sr.

Landon E. Petrie Sr., 93, a lifelong residence of Lake Geneva, passed into the presence of his Lord on October 3, 2014 at his home, surrounded by his loving family. Landon was born in Elkhorn to the late Merton and Lillian (Yarrington) Petrie on September 7, 1921. Growing up on a farm, Landon learned how to fix just about anything. After attending local schools, he enlisted in the U.S. Army during World War II. He met his lift-long love, Mary Lou Neuman, while home on leave. After a brief courtship, they were married in El Paso, TX on Oct. 6, 1945. Landon was a hard-working entrepreneur, starting a bulk milk hauling route, building the family home in 1960, and then establishing Petrie Truck Rental. His creative outlet was transforming farm land into a park-like setting, with ponds and landscaping, providing a peaceful retreat enjoyed by his entire family. His retirement, which was split between winters in California and summers in Wisconsin, was happily focused on beautifying his land. He loved the Lord, serving as an elder for many years at the Lake Geneva Bible Chapel, and was mindful of helping those in need. For years, Landon drove car loads of children to Awana's at Calvary Community Church, which he later attended regularly. He was chairman of the local Christian Business Men's organization and met their staff vehicle needs. He served on the board of the Walworth County Youth for Christ group, and was part of a men's stock club for many years as well. Perhaps his greatest pride was his family of six children. He is survived by his beloved wife, Mary, of 69 years; sons Landon Jr. (Nancy Schwab) of Woodstock, IL; Bradford (Gayle Hamilton) of Cold Spring, NY; and Wayne (Cheryl) Petrie of Lake Geneva; daughters Catherine (Keith) Yurica of Seoul, South Korea; Barbara (Joseph) Spiegelhoff of Lake Geneva; and Christine (Victor) Gallardo of El Segundo, CA. Seventeen grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren were also cherished by him. He was preceded in death by his parents and his three sisters, Mary Bruce, Mildred Willis, and Thelma Grace. Visitation will be from 9:00 to 11:00 AM on Thursday, October 9, at Calvary Community Church, Williams Bay, with the service following. Burial will be at North Geneva Cemetery, Elkhorn. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Calvary Community Church or The Time is Now. Steinke Funeral Home & Cremation Services are assisting the family with the arrangements. For online obituary and guest registry go to www.steinkefuneralhomeinc Visitation Thursday, October 9th, 2014 9:00am - 11:00amService Information Thursday, October 9th, 2014 11:00am