Obituary of Erich F. Petsch

Erich F. Petsch June 26, 1932 - September 30, 2006 Erich F. Petsch of Greenlawn Drive, Danbury, devoted husband of Rita (Unlemann) Petsch, died at Danbury Hospital surrounded by his family, on Saturday, September 30th. He was born in Mellrichstadt, Germany on June 26, 1932, son of the late Franz and Paula (Bauner) Petsch. He made his home in Danbury in 1965. He came to this country in 1951, living in New Rochelle, NY, where he owned and operated an Auto Repair Shop. In 1989 he opened a used car lot in Modena, NY. He also transported cars for local dealerships in the Danbury area. Mr. Petsch was a Veteran of the Korean War, serving with the United States Army from 1952 until 1954. He was honorably discharged and received the Occupational Medal and the National Defense Service Medal. He loved to talk to people and was well known for his ability to tell a great story. He was also known to throw large parties. He enjoyed collecting things, such as cigars, old favorites by Patsy Klein and Old German Songs. In his younger days he enjoyed playing pinochle, and world travel with his family in both the US and Europe. In addition to his beloved wife, Rita, he is survived by his son, Eric L. Petsch and his wife, Melissa of South Lake, TX.; his two daughters, Susan L. Petsch of Danbury, and Barbara Stern and her husband Fred of Bridgewater; and his five grandchildren, Allen Fitzsimmons, Andrew Stern, Eric, Dominique, and Matthew Petsch. He is also survived by his brother, Harald Petsch of Munnerstadt, Germany; as well as many extended family members in Germany. He was predeceased by his brother, Lothar Petsch. Funeral Information Funeral Services will be held at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Clapboard Ridge Road, Danbury, on Thursday, October 5th at 11:00am. Burial in Prince of Peace Lutheran Cemetery will follow. The family will receive friends at the Cornell Memorial Home, 247 White Street, Danbury, on Wednesday, October 4th between the hours of 4 and 7pm. Donations Information In keeping with his love of animals, in lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Danbury Animal Welfare, PO Box 971, Danbury, CT. 06813-0971.