Ronald Wayne Pettee

Canandaigua - Ronald "Ron" Wayne Pettee, age 80, passed away peacefully, on Thursday, August 8, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. He is survived by his son, Michael (Julie); 3 daughters, Kelley (Douglas), Sara (Jim) and Amy; and grandchildren Cameron, Delaney, Owen and Caelum. Ron was predeceased by his beloved wife, Mary; and parents.
Ron was born in Portsmouth and was the son of Raymond Mossman and Lottie Louise (Robinson) Pettee. He graduated from Portsmouth High School in 1961 and remained close with his high school friends throughout his life. From there, he went to the University of New Hampshire and was active in team sports and the ROTC. After graduating, Ron was commissioned by the U.S. Army in 1966 and served with the 1st Infantry Division during the Vietnam War, where he was awarded the Bronze Star Medal for valor. He was honorably discharged in 1969 at the rank of Captain. Ron relocated to Milwaukee where he met Mary. He worked as a transportation / logistics manager for various organizations throughout his career, including J.I. Case and Oshkosh Truck Corporation. Ron retired in 2008 and later, he and Mary relocated to Canandaigua to be closer to their children and grandchildren.
Throughout his life, Ron enjoyed sports of all kinds. While he enjoyed competing as an athlete, his true passion was vigorously coaching his children and grandchildren from the sidelines. Pop-P was a terrific grandfather who loved attending his grandchildren's sporting and academic events, which he continued to do even more recently when he wasn't feeling well. He remained very active throughout his retirement. Most mornings, he could be found walking at the Canandaigua VA Medical Center, where he also volunteered in support of his fellow Veterans. This, together with almost daily shopping trips, he walked nearly 14,000 miles (approximately 28 million steps) since he started tracking his activity in 2016.
His family has gone far in life with his overwhelming love and support, and we will continue to go far in memory of him. "So when tomorrow starts without me; Do not think we're apart. For every time you think of me; Remember I'm right here in your heart" ~ David Romano
A graveside service will be held Friday, August 23, at 10 am, at NYS Veterans Cemetery, 6632 State Rte. 96A, Romulus. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Gary Sinise Foundation or The Special Olympics New York. Arrangements are by the Johnson-Kennedy Funeral Home, Inc., Canandaigua. Condolences may be offered at www.johnsonkennedy.com.