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Michelle Lynn Pettitt
1968 - 2017
Michelle Lynn Pettitt
1968 - 2017
Obituary
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Michelle Pettitt Obituary
Michelle brought joy to so many people with her fun spirit, wonderful smiles, giggles and most of all her teasing to get you to smile and enjoy life! She cherished her friendships made through her jobs and her many activities. Discovery Living, To The Rescue, ARC of East Central Iowa, Camp Courageous and Camp Wyoming, Milky Way Masters Swimming and Special Olympics were all sources of wonderful relationships that enhanced her quality of life. Michelle is survived by her loving parents, Geri and Jim Pettitt, and her adoring sisters; Lisa Pettitt (Dave Kenney), Shannon Pettitt (Tony Stack), and Beth Pettitt (Andy Wubbels), as well as her fun-loving nieces and nephews: Sophia, Teresa, Hugh, Josh, Tyler and June, and many loving aunts, uncles and cousins. The family is grateful to all those who provided supportive services throughout her life and especially during Michelle’s last several years with dementia. Services: 10 a.m. on Saturday at Teahen Funeral Home. Burial: St. Joseph’s Cemetery. Friends may visit with the family from 3 to 8 p.m. on Friday and after 9 a.m. on Saturday at the funeral home. Friday evening’s visitation will include a prayer service at 7 p.m. In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established. Online condolences may be left for the family at teahenfuneralhome.com
Veda White
February 22, 2019
I know your family has warm and loving memories of Michelle.
veda White
Judy Suchomel
April 9, 2017
Dear Geri and family, I was so sorry to read in camp courageous magazine of Michelle's passing. I met you about 32 years ago after my son, Scott, was born with Down Syndrome. You were an angel stepping into my life during that time. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. What an inspiration you were to me. I remember so well the times you talked about Michelle and how well she was doing. What a beautiful, talented daughter she was. I only wish I would have met her. I can only imagine how blessed you and your family were to have Michelle in your lives. Please know I am thinking of you and your family. God bless Judy Suchomel
Tracie Tackett Maurice
March 13, 2017
To the Pettitt Family~
In visiting with my daughter recently, she shared that one of her consumer friends from her ARC employment days had passed away. Much to my surprise, when I heard her name, I found that Michelle was part of my past also. I taught vocal music at Polk School in 1979 and 1980. I remember Michelle's total enthusiasm in music class, especially when we did our square dancing unit! Reading all of Michelle's accomplishments in the world of athletics is not surprising and in keeping with my memories. Hearing about her humming and singing along with her earphones while working is also not surprising. She and her classmates were undeniably my favorite students and classes at Polk School. She obviously went on to make all of her schools, teams, coaches and family very proud. Your love and encouragement allowed her to blossom into a very special woman. My daughter, Mellette Drager and I send our love, prayers and sympathy to you.
Steve & Lyn Machacek
March 7, 2017
So sorry to hear about the passing of Michelle. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.
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Phyllis Moore
March 6, 2017
Geri and Jim,
We are sad to learn from Michael that Michelle has passed away. When I read of her accomplishments, I am hopeful that other parents will follow your example and push their child to reach such a wonderful potential. But most of all, Michelle taught us all simply how to love. She loved because she was loved so well by both of you, Lisa, Shannon, and Beth. We are keeping your family in our prayers from afar. Dick and Phyllis Moore
Craig Harwood
March 5, 2017
Geri and family,
It was with shock and sadness that we read about Michelle. It is really hard to believe that someone so full of life can be gone. You are in our thoughts, hearts and prayers,
Craig, Kathy & Dan Harwood
March 5, 2017
Geri and family: Thank you for being such a wonderful example to us all. We all learned from you and Michelle what a person with a disability can do when encouraged and supported. Thank you for blazing the trail!!
Mary Kelley
Special Education at Prairie HS( retired)
Shelly Wade
March 5, 2017
So sorry for your loss peitt family my thoughts are with you I knew Michelle from special Olympics
March 4, 2017
Geri,Jim and family, Jerry and I were sad to hear about Michelle's passing. I will miss her at church. We loved reading about all of Michelle's accomplishments. You all are such a wonderful family. Jerry and I love sharing our spiritual life with you. We will keep you all in our prayers. Mary and Jerry
Phyllis McGowan
March 4, 2017
Geri and family, I am saddened to hear of Michelle's passing and wish you blessings. The time you and she spent sharing, supporting and encouraging others has provided so much to so many. Thank you for making the world a better place for everyone to succeed and be appreciated for their offerings.
Tracy (Kness) Summers
March 3, 2017
I was really sad to hear of Michelle's passing. I have such great memories of my brothers (Michael & Steve) and me spending time at the Pettitt home with Michelle, Beth and Shannon. Just thinking back on them brings joy, even with the tears in my eyes. My thoughts are with the entire family at this difficult time.
Stephen Kness
March 3, 2017
Seems like time flies by so quickly. I can still see you and Michael at Summer Olympics every year. Fond memories and times spent with friends and families. You shall be missed.
March 3, 2017
Hi Jim, Geri and girls...so sorry to hear the passing of Michelle. I had no idea of all the accomplishments she had in her life. That was due to such a wonderful family she had and love you had for each other. Your whole family has always meant a lot to me and Michelle was such an awesome person. She meant so much to me that as you know I named my first born after her. My prayers are with all of you. Michelle had a full and adventurous life. I'm sure she brought so much joy to you all...
Dixie Heineman(Bowers)
Charlie Becker
March 3, 2017
What a beautiful legacy Michelle leaves behind...she touched far more lives than she could ever realize...the world is a far better place, because of all the doors Michelle opened. I'm so sorry Geri & Jim...so many years of wonderful memories...
Laurie (Graham) Valentine
March 3, 2017
Jim and Geri ... I was so sorry to hear about Michelle's passing. I remember her YEARS ago when you would pop into Linn Air, to visit Dick and JoAnn Laselle. I remember Michelle as quite the firecracker! Loved Life!! Everything was just so exciting to her. I am sure she provided you with years of joy and will be missed greatly by all those who knew her. My prayers are with you and yours at this time.
Paul Breitbach
March 3, 2017
Dear Pettit Family:
Heaven has welcomed home a very special angel. Heaven is a much happier and brighter place as God welcomes Michelle into His loving arms. Blessings and Prayers. May God's love surround all of you.
Kim (BREKKE) Zierke
March 2, 2017
Dear Pettit family
So sorry to hear this news. She always had a smile on her face. I will always remember car rides to amd from swim practice with her and Shannon.
Erica Larson
March 2, 2017
Geri and family,
I feel fortunate to have had the opportunity to work alongside Michelle at the VAST Center. May God keep you and give you the peace of knowing Michelle touched the lives of so many!
Scott Hoffman
March 2, 2017
Geri, Jim and family, I sorry to hear of your loss . I have many memories of Michelle at past family gatherings. I enjoyed asking her about her sports activity's, job and always her Boyfriend. She made me smile. God bless you . I hope your tears turn to laughter and fond memories of your wonderful daughter
Tina Bauman
March 2, 2017
Geri and Family - I am so sorry to hear of Michelle's passing. From her story I can tell she was an amazing young woman. My family will be praying for your comfort and peace.
Tina Bauman
Kristine (Ernst) Stensland
March 2, 2017
To the Pettit family, I am so sorry to hear about your loss. I have fond memories of Michelle at the pool cheering for Shannon. I pray God fills your hearts and minds with memories that bring smiles and laughter through the tears. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
March 2, 2017
Jim, Geri and Family,
We are so sorry to hear of Michelle's passing. May your love of God comfort you and may your family, friends and communities support you during this time. Prayers and (((HUGS)))
Love You - Joanne Bussinger, John Trapp, Julie Trapp, Jennifer Bugarin and Families
Christopher Soldat
March 2, 2017
To the Pettitt family, I have many fond memories of working with Michelle at VAST. She was a ray of sunshine in our lives. I am sorry for your loss.
Stephanie, Neal and Andy Gilbertson
March 2, 2017
Geri, Jim and family, we are saddened to hear of Michelle's passing. She was such a character, full of life, while she was here with us. I think of the freedom she has gained in her heavenly home, but I know the loss is great here. You are in our prayers.
Judy Munshower
March 2, 2017
We are very sorry to hear about Michelle's passing - know that you are all in our thoughts and prayers at this difficult time.
Bill Stumpf
March 2, 2017
Geri, Jim and family, So very sorry to hear of Michelle's passing. Truly an inspiration to all with and without disabilities. My sympathy.
Carol & Dick Lensing
March 2, 2017
Jim & Geri,
Who would have thought that one tiny little chromosome would create someone who lived life so beautifully as Michelle did. We know your hearts are heavy with sorrow but rejoice in the knowledge that she is with God now. So sorry we can't be there to give you hugs in person (we are in Arizona through the end of March). Thoughts and prayers to all of you!
Mary Ellen Becker
March 2, 2017
Geri, my sympathy to you and the family on Michelle's passing. It's hard for me to think of her as 48. I'll always remember her as that young energetic teenager who was moving on from High School to Kirkwood Community College.
Mindy (Bodin) Fults
March 2, 2017
So sorry to hear of Michelle's death--thinking about her brings a smile to my face! I met her through swimming with Shannon, and I always enjoyed talking to her, but I think my favorite memory is watching her sing along to Grease in a hotel room at an away swim meet. You will all be in my prayers!
Christine, Bear, Corey and Abby Grothe
March 2, 2017
Geri and Jim, our whole heart to you and your family. We are so very sorry to hear about Michelle. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
March 2, 2017
I know what a precious life Michelle's was to you, Rosie, and all her family. Much love to you and good memories to you,
Veda
Debbie, Pat, Candi Snider
March 2, 2017
We are sorry to hear of the passing of Michelle, she was one of Debbie's friends when she lived in the group home with her in Marion Iowa, Debbie is going to miss her dearly, our thoughts and prayers are with Michelle's family at this time.
Karen Vavra
March 2, 2017
Geri, So sorry to hear about Michelle. Know that you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Jim Voss
March 2, 2017
To the Pettitt family:
Please accept our condolences on your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you at this difficult time. We hope that comfort and peace come to you. I used to help Michelle with her swimming at Washington HS and cheered her on at the meets. She was a very courageous young lady. I am sure he will truly be missed by many.
May God bless all of you.
Jim and Carol Voss
Julie Grotewold
March 2, 2017
Geri, holding you close in my heart along with your family. I have a huge smile on my face when I think of Michelle. It's hard to imagine all the people she has influenced. What a life!
March 2, 2017
Remembering your family bike ride down to Blue Strawberry where we had such a nice visit! Also knowing her as a little girl and marveling at all her amazing accomplishments!
What a blessing she has been to so many lives! A true inspiration for a life well lived! Prayers for all of you! Fondly Gene and Sally Kopecky
Linda and Don Kness
March 2, 2017
Geri and Jim our prayers and thoughts are with you at this time. I am in shock and my mind is racing with all the memories we have all be through over the years. I remember the first time Michael and our family met Machelle and our family. Our children grew up together and we have so many good memories of times spent together. My heart is breaking with this news. May God be with all of your family during this time. We will never forget the times spent with Machelle and all your family.
Brian Reeves
March 2, 2017
So sorry, was lucky to know Michelle from craa days. Always at practice with a smile and made everyone else smile. Peace my friend
Kristi Cooper
March 1, 2017
Geri and family, I'm sorry to hear of Michelle's death. I met her at Grant Wood AEA years ago and marveled at her spunk. I know you will miss her so much! May you find peace during this difficult time!
Linda Ruchotzke
March 1, 2017
Dear Geri, Jim, and family,
I was so very sorry to hear of Michelle's passing! I have so many fond memories of her and Devon growing up together. He had such a crush on her when they were,teenagers! She grew into a wonderful woman and I know how proud of her you were and how very much you will miss her. All our love and sympathy from Devon and myself.
Linda and Devon Ruchotzke
Ann Kessler
March 1, 2017
I am so sorry, I just learned of Michele's death. My heart goes out to you.....I enjoyed getting to know Michele at GW.
Kevin Nebergall
March 1, 2017
Michelle, who played tennis while i was coaching, was adamant that i should purchase a Trek bicycle, which I did upon her recommendation, and i still have it. Fond thoughts of Michelle.
Jennnifer Snell
March 1, 2017
Geri and family, I am honored that I got to work with you and Michelle at Grant Wood. All of you formed a loving and caring life for each other. I am sorry for the grief and loss you are now experiencing.
Cindy Donaldson
March 1, 2017
Dear Geri and family,
Please accept my sympathy on the loss of Michelle.
I can see her walking the halls of the AEA, working so hard at her job.
She was a wonderful example of what should be the norm for all people; living a life of value and respect. She was so blessed with parents and siblings who would not allow society to deny her access to all that was rightfully hers.
Your family will be in my thoughts and prayers and I will value the fact that I knew Michelle.
May she rest gently in the palms of God's hands.
Lorena Thullen
March 1, 2017
My heart surrounds you during this time. She was an inspiration to many. Because of her life well lived so many were touched. My family benefited from her life and those who loved her.
Robyn and Tom McCoy
March 1, 2017
Geri and Jim,
We just learned of Michelle's passing. We send energy of love and compassion . We can't imagine how this must be for you. Please know our thoughts, love and prayers are with you.
With much love,
Tim and Robyn
Suzanne & Steve Blomme
March 1, 2017
Geri & Family,
We hold you in our hearts as you grieve the loss and celebrate the gift of dear Michelle. She was a shining example of a life well lived, inspiring many of us by defying expectations while reaching for the stars.
May warm memories of your dear girl bring you a measure of comfort, while your faith brings you a measure peace.
In prayer, today & always,
Ashley Courtney
March 1, 2017
hi jim n jerri im srry of michelle pass will be very missed im srry i cant make i have to wrk I'll be there in pray for u guys im goin to miss michelle
March 1, 2017
Geri and family,
You have my sincere sympathy on your loss of Michelle. I knew of several activities that Michelle involved in, but certainly not all of them. What a gal and what a life!
Michelle and I met through Special Olympics. Once we met, she would always smile, wave, speak, or come across the area to speak to me and give me a hug. We frequently teased each other, and shared information about events and people we knew in common.
It was enjoyable to watch Michelle mature, gain new skills, and share those with her friends and competitors.
All of us who were acquainted with Michelle join you in the loss of Michelle.
BJ Wetherell
Washington, IA
Karen Gilson
March 1, 2017
I was so sad to hear of Michelle's passing. She was a sweet, loving girl filled with energy and a passionate love of life. I can still see her pedaling her bicycle with a smile on her face. Please accept my sympathy.
Virginia Smelser
March 1, 2017
Dear Geri & family,
Michelle worked in Central File from time to time as she assisted with special projects. With her headphones on & music cranked up, she would sing her way through the project. It makes me smile now as it did then. Such a great spirit she had!
Thoughts & prayers to you.
Mary McCue
March 1, 2017
Dear Geri and Jim,
I saw the short notice in the Gazette at the bank while waiting. And then found this wonderful description of Michelle's life and accomplishments. We send our love and prayers to you. She had wonderful parents
Jim and Mary McCue
Valeria Prado
March 1, 2017
Dear Shannon and family,
So sorry to hear the news of Michelle's passing. May her light continue to shine through the joy and laughter she brought others. Our prayers are with you and your family.
Ali and Steve Graham
March 1, 2017
Dear Geri and Jim and family,
Steve and the kids and I are so sorry to hear of Michelle's passing. We will keep you all in our thoughts and prayers today and in the days ahead as you celebrate Michelle's life and grieve her loss.
I always enjoyed when Michelle would pop into my office at Grant Wood AEA to chat about the Dukes of Hazard (I was a fan too, but nothing like she was) or when we would visit while she was working on science kits back in the VAST center. I always enjoyed the way she would sing like nobody was watching while she worked on a project with her tunes cranked up and her head set on her ears.
Michelle was a sweet gal and an inspiration to many! We will pray for her continued adventures in heaven and for your healing on earth.
Our love is with you.
Katy (Lamb) Heater
March 1, 2017
So very sorry to hear of Michelle's passing. I have such wonderful memories of Michelle when she was swimming at Washington. She had a beautiful spirit and taught me some very valuable lessons that I have carried through my life. I have always had a lot of respect for her and your family and I am so very sorry for your loss.
Brytta Fitzgibbons
March 1, 2017
So sorry to hear of Michelle's passing. We will always remember her fun attitude.
Cindy Seehusen
March 1, 2017
I am so sorry for your loss. Michelle was blessed with a family who did not limit her and encouraged her to be independent and involved with her peers. While I did not know Michelle personally, I learned much from her story and from you, Geri. Her family taught her to be an advocate for herself and to never underestimate what a person can accomplish.
Wendy Heaverlo-Hagmeier
March 1, 2017
Very sad to hear of Michelle's passing. I recall swimming with her at CRAA and she just loved being in the water - always smiling and so proud of how she raced. Another Angel up above - Hugs!
DeAnn Shields
March 1, 2017
Michelle is remembered from Special Olympics from when Craig participated. With sympathy and many kind thoughts for your family.
Ralph and Vicki Standley
March 1, 2017
So sad to hear of Michelle's passing. She was an inspiration to many people and enjoyed life to the fullest!
Gail Botz
March 1, 2017
Dear Geri and family,
I am so sorry for your loss and so glad I had the pleasure of knowing Michelle. I have very fond memories of working with Michelle at Grant Wood AEA. She touched so many lives in a positive way and always brightened your day.
May you find peace through the wonderful memories of your dear Michelle and the support of family and friends.
God's peace.
Liz and Mike Hooley
March 1, 2017
Just remembering Michelle all day today, and smiling. She will stay in everyone's hearts forever.
Candice
March 1, 2017
Sunshine, you are very special me and everyone. You touched us in your own special way. Love and will miss you.
Tara Youells
March 1, 2017
We are so very sorry to learn of Michelle's death. We are keeping you in our thoughts and prayers.
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