Richard Keith Pettenger

With heavy hearts we announce the passing of our beloved father and cherished Papa, Richard Keith Pettenger, age 85, on November 2, 2025, at The Landings of Prescott Valley, Arizona, with his wife, Anita, at his side.

Richard (Dick) was born in Dixon, Illinois, on September 2, 1940, the son of Arthur and Katherine Pettenger. Richard was a 1959 graduate of Dixon High School. He later served with the Army National Guard of Illinois, and as a reservist of the United States Army. He was honorably discharged on December 9, 1964.

Survivors include his wife of 39 years, Anita Pettenger of Dewey, AZ; former wife, Carolyn Gunnon of Lexington, KY; son, Greg Pettenger of Fairbanks, AK; daughters Julianne (Lysander) Snow of Lexington, KY and Nicole (Dan) Ortuno of Maynard, MA; stepdaughter Rhonda (George) Harper of San Diego, CA; stepson Kenneth (Sofia) Springer of San Diego, CA; grandsons Andrew Ortuno, Jonathan (Jewel) Snow, Elijah Ortuno, Devin Snow, and Lysander Jr Snow; granddaughters Hannah and Chloe; and great-grandson Ezra; step-grandsons Harrison Harper, Isaac Harper, Ryan Springer, Alexander Springer, and countless nieces and nephews.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents; sister Pat Kresanek; brothers Roy, Jim, Roger and Bob Pettenger; and one nephew.

Our dad loved his family, loved playing games, and had an infectious sense of humor. He was a lifetime fan of the Chicago Bears and Chicago Cubs. He also was an avid gardener, even winning the 1974 Petunia Festival prize for "Best Lawn." His favorite pastime for many years was golfing; a highlight of which was making a hole-in-one on the 16th hole at Torrey Pines golf course in La Jolla, CA. Our sincere thanks to Arizona Life Hospice of Prescott and the many caregivers that appreciated dad's wit and sense of humor. Dad, you are now at peace but will live on forever in our hearts. We will miss you always.

Cremation rites have been accorded by Sunrise Funeral Home of Prescott Valley, Arizona. A private family celebration of life will be held at a later date.