Obituaries

Dino Petrucci (85)

Dino Antonio Petrucci (85), a native and life-long resident of Madera passed away on Monday, January 4, 2016, with his family by his side. Dino was born to Vincenzo and Ilide Petrucci, Italian Immigrants who were members of the large Italian community who helped settle and pioneer Madera with its rich agricultural history.

Dino attended the old Howard School and graduated from Madera Union High School in 1947. In 1948, he served as the California State FFA President. He then attended Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo where he received his Bachelor of Science Degree in Agriculture Education. In 1951 he wed his bride, Peggy Hayes—they would have celebrated 65 years of marriage this March.

After a short time teaching in Victorville, Dino returned to his alma mater as an Agriculture Education instructor. Although he was small, he was mighty and his students learned very quickly not to mess with Mr. Petrucci. He found joy in teaching and in expanding students’ minds by showing them what they were capable of.

His family’s life revolved around his teaching schedule—family vacations were planned around California Ag Teachers’ Association Conference during the summer. Altogether, Dino spent 40 plus years of his life devoted to Vocational Agriculture and Education and because of his brother Enzo’s support, he was able to farm throughout his time as an educator.

In 1974, Dino began Petrucci’s Catering. He purchased the old Howard School building and renamed it “The Old School House”. Dino then spent his time in the food service industry, cooking family recipes, catering for the community, and marketing his beloved “Petrucci’s Secret Sauce”. Dino and his family made many memories and countless friendships through the catering business. His favorite place to be was at the end of the buffet line greeting everyone and making sure their plates were full.

Dino found joy in civil service and giving back to our community. He was actively involved in The Young Farmers, Lions Club, the Italo-American Club of Madera, Madera County Farm Bureau’s Board of Directors, and the Madera County Food Bank Board of Directors. He also served on the Madera Unified School District Board of Education and in 1999; Dino was honored as the Madera County Senior Farmer of the Year by the Madera Chamber of Commerce.

Dino is survived by his bride of 64 years, Peggy Petrucci, his daughter, Dina Petrucci and Norman Harbison, his son, Vince Petrucci, granddaughter, Mika Petrucci, grandson, Lucca Petrucci, daughter-in-law, Dennise Petrucci, ranch foreman Julio and wife Veronica Cabrera, and caregivers Lupi Ledesma and Hector Romo.

A Memorial will be held on Saturday, January 23, 10:00 A.M. at Madera South High School Cafeteria to honor and celebrate Dino’s life.

In lieu of flowers remembrances may be made to Hinds Hospice, 2490 W. Shaw Ave. #101, Fresno, CA 93711 or Madera Adult Day Care, 322 W. 6th St., Madera, CA 93637.

Dino’s legacy will be carried on through Petrucci’s Secret Sauce, Petrucci’s Seasoning, and the BBQ Pit at the Old School House which will remain open on Saturdays 9am-3pm.