Michael C. Petri

It is very sad to hear of Big Mike's passing. What a kind and compassionate man he was. He was a fixture at Linden sporting events so much as it seems everybody in town new Big Mike. We went so many games together I can't imagine how many. I would take my daughters to some of the football and basketball games and he always had candy for them. I played several years with him in a Sunday morning softball league and I have never seen anyone hit a ball as far as he could. The world was a...

It has been my honor and privilege to have been Big Mike´s friend for over 55 years. So many good times playing basketball and softball with him along with countless conversations with him at the Old Corner Inn, Pizzatown, Big Stash´s or over the phone. He was a kind, considerate, and loyal friend who I will dearly miss. RIP Mike.

I met Michael in a lobby after a Defensive Driving Class. he said "your class was so long my ride home has left." we went to his house and have been friends since. Michael always brought a joy and love of life to situations with me. I had a battle buddy who needed a dog and Mike said my son in law has a litter, come check it out. my buddy Irv got to meet Marcos and gained a dog for his family. To the family: As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you...

I have been friends with Big Mike for close to 50 years and played many softball games together with him. Mike was surprisingly athletic for such a big guy. Mike always hit the ball into the trees in left field and was a good first basemen. Mike always cared about his friends and always reached out to see how I was doing. Enjoyed watching many heavyweight fights at my house and we always busted on one another. Great guy, great sense of humor, loved all sports and his family and friends. You...

RIP Big Mike, We shared many laughs and stories on the softball diamonds over the years. Mike was like the ESPN for Linden and local sports teams.Had all the info committed to memory!! Cannot forget his voicemail messages, "Joe....(10 second pause)......This is Big Mike.....(10 second pause)......where are ya??" Still makes me Smile! Rest in Peace Big Man. You will always be a Linden Legend!