Jimmie Petero

UNION, Mo. - Jimmie Eugene "Jim" Petero was born Jan. 6, 1945, in Arnold, Mo., to Loy and Kethell (nee' Sprinkle) Petero. He passed away Monday, Sept. 22, 2025, at the Missouri Veterans' Home in St. James, Mo., at the age of 80 years.

Jim graduated from Cleveland High School in St. Louis. He joined the United States Army in 1965 and proudly served his country for two years. He attained the rank of Drill Corporal and was honorably discharged from active duty in September 1967. He completed the remainder of his service in the National Guard. Jim enjoyed a successful career as a truck driver for many years. He worked at Werner Trucking for many years and finished his career at Cassen's Motor Transport, retiring in 2007. Jim was united in marriage to Judy Mitchell (nee' Hunt) in 2016 at Zion United Church of Christ, and the couple made their home in Union.

Jim enjoyed a variety of hobbies and interests throughout his life. He was a talented woodworker and created many ornate woodcarvings over the years. He was also a competitive bowler and participated in several bowling leagues. Jim was a longtime member of the West County Woodcarvers Club and Tri-County Woodcarvers Club. He was also an active member of the St. Mark's Blind Outreach Center and a member of Zion United Church of Christ in Union.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Loy and Kethell Petero; his previous wife, Mary Petero (nee' Snyder); and four siblings, Joyce, Jerry, Joan, and Joe.

He is survived by his loving wife, Judy Petero (nee' Hunt) of Union; one son, Clay Petero of North Carolina; three step-children, Donna McMillen-Dailey and husband Dave of Pacific, Mo., Bill McMillen and significant other Sandy Vantieghem of DeSoto, Mo., and Craig Mitchell and wife Mary Pat of Eureka, Mo.; one brother, Jack Petero and wife Karen of Pevely, Mo.; and three grandchildren along with nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Visitation for 80-year-old Jim Petero was held from 4 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 24, at Oltmann Funeral Home in Union, Mo. Funeral services immediately followed at 7 p.m., on Wednesday at the funeral home with Reverend Nicholas Knoblauch officiating.

Burial with full military honors will take place at 9:30 a.m. on Friday, Sept. 26, in the National Cemetery at Jefferson Barracks.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Zion UCC.

The Petero family is served by Oltmann Funeral Home in Union, Mo.