Ralph Michael Petriello

Ralph Michael Petriello passed away on July 4, 2025 at the age of 95. He was born on November 2, 1929 in Bridgeport, CT, the son of Bartolomeo & Antonetta Petriello. He is survived by his beloved wife Sheila, cherished daughters Susan Enerson (Daniel), and Joan Peters, and son Bart Peters (Rani), grandchildren Rachel Artounian (Tommy), Katie Pressman (Elliot), Morgan and Lucas Enerson, and great grandchildren Audrey and Cameron Artounian and Benjamin Pressman. He was predeceased by brothers Salvatore (Rita) and Anthony (Gloria), sister Teena Brown (Jimmy) and brother Bart. He graduated from St. Charles Grammar ('43) and Warren Harding High Schools ('47) and attended University of Bridgeport.

He served 4 years in the USN, working at the Pentagon on top secret OP23 as the USAF attempted to redirect Navy budgets to the Air Force. He worked as a staff member directly for Captain Arleigh A. (30 knot) Burke and several admirals, saving the Navy's budget. His subsequent duty was Admiral's staff, Commander, Amphibious Forces Atlantic Fleet, USS Taconic, AGC-17, Norfolk, VA then Little Creek, VA.

Ralph Michael was Business Administrator at Sunoco for 10 years, Business Manager for several other companies, then joined Glendinning Companies in Westport, CT in 1969. When he transferred to their London office as European Project Coordinator in 1972, he met his wife of 48 years, Sheila Maskens, whom he married in Stratford, CT. In 1985 he joined Ryan Partnership marketing group as one of four initial Senior Partners. Through those last two jobs he produced promotions for clients such as Shell, Western Union (working with Walter Payton as a spokesperson), Miami Dolphins, and major supermarket chains.

Michael and Sheila retired in 1996 to Sun Lakes, AZ, enjoying family and many dear friends. Their retirement was full, with international travel, golf (2 holes in 1), dancing, hiking, and skiing - he even took up running at age 77!

In 2024 they moved to Mooresville, NC to be close to family, which was a great blessing. He especially loved to spend time with his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. His twinkling eyes and ever-present enthusiasm for life will be greatly missed by all who knew him. If you wish to donate in his memory, please do so through Mohammed Ali Parkinson's Center, Phoenix AZ. Services will be held on July 18 in Mooresville, NC and his ashes will be buried in Bridgeport, CT at a memorial later this year.