Kenneth L. Petrucelli

Ken Petrucelli passed away on June 23, 2019, after a lengthy battle with cancer. He was born to Laurence and Dorothy Petrucelli March 22, 1937, in Connecticut. 

Ken graduated from Fairfield Preparatory School. After graduation, he joined the Sea Bees Branch of the U S Navy. He served on Midway Island. Upon completing his tour of duty, he enrolled in Ventura Jr. College where he met his future wife Judy Barnes. After completing his Junior College classes, he transferred to Chico State College graduating in 1962 with a BA in Elementary Education. Ken had a lengthy career in education as a teacher and administrator in both Durham and Chico. While working as a classroom teacher he continued his education receiving a Master’s Degree in Administration of Elementary Education. He left the classroom community and directed a Federal Project: Systematic Approach to Reading Improvement (SARI). At Shasta Elementary School, he introduced the ongoing program “Grandparents Day.” Upon transferring to Chapman Elementary School, he introduced the successful Adopt a Cop program. After 12 years at school sites, he moved into the Chico Unified School District Office as Director of Elementary Education and then Director of Building Services. After retirement, he worked in the ProShop of Bidwell Golf Course. Ken loved his tenure as Coach of the Junior Varsity Football program at Durham High School. 

He was an avid golfer, wood craftsman and all around sports enthusiast. (#1 fan of the U Conn Girls Basketball team.) For many years, he served on the board of directors of Bidwell Golf Course including several terms as President. He was instrumental in getting a liquor license for the course. Throughout the years, he played a variety of sports including baseball, softball, bowling and horseshoes. 

He is survived by his wife Judy, son Michael (Susan), daughter Lisa (Robert) and grandchildren Caitlin, Kyle, Malorie and Maris. In Connecticut, he leaves his sister Nancy (Noel) Gabrielle and brother Jerry (Karolyn) Petrucelli, sister Bonnie Novak (Bob) of New Hampshire. Ken is predeceased by his brother Richard Petrucelli. Survivors include many wonderful nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews in Connecticut, New Hampshire, and Pennsylvania.

 A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, October 19, 2019 at 9:30 a.m. at Saint Agnes Church (Precious Blood Parish), 400 Merwin Ave., Milford, CT (MEET DIRECTLY AT CHURCH). Interment with Military Honors will follow at King’s Highway Cemetery, 271 Cherry Street, Milford, CT. To leave online condolences, please visit our website at www.codywhitefuneralservice.com.

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