Harold Petrini

Harold James Petrini of Great Falls passed away on June 29, 2013 after a long respiratory illness.Harold was born August 7, 1926. He left high school early to work and soon joined the Navy; serving eight years and seeing the world. During his Navy career, he was involved in the Atomic Bomb Testing in the Bikini Islands. Harold married Eileen Hanshue on March 14, 1948. They returned to Montana where he worked for Gamble-Robinson and managed a grocery store in Havre. He later went to work for the ACM Company in Great Falls and was there for 23 years, retiring in 1980. After retirement, he worked part-time at Electric City Conservatory and Flower Farm until COPD forced him to permanently retire.Harold was an active Boy Scout Den Master early on. He rose through the ranks to become the longest serving President of the Cristoforo Columbo Lodge. He was a member of the Masonic Lodge, becoming a Grand Master. Harold was a member and officer in both the Elks and Moose Lodges. He served on the Great Falls Economic Growth Council. Harold was a founding member and officer in the ACM Credit Union and the Riverview Credit Union.His favorite pastime was his yard and flowers. He will most be remembered as the ultimate Green Thumb.Harold was preceded in death by his love, Eileen; parents, Rinaldo and Mary; sister Shirley and brother George.Harold is survived by brothers, Bob and Jack; sister, Mary Ann; sons, Greg, Gary (Debbie), Ron (Maggie), and Rory; daughter, Kari Grassman (Bill Jones); grandchildren, Amanda Kramlich, Teri Grassman, Isabella Luca, Zak Petrini and Cortney Moore (Mike); great-grandchildren, Ryne Petrini, Alexander and Reilynn Grassman all of whom he loved dearly.A special thanks from his family to all Hospice and Benefis nursing personnel who comforted him during his last days. At Harolds request, no services will be held.