Charles "Skip" Petry

Charles “Skip” Petry, 68, of Chandler, Arizona, passed away on January 13, 2024, after complications from pneumonia, surrounded by loved ones.

Born in the late evening hours on December 31, 1955, to Russell and Olwen Petry, Charles came into the world with a peaceful and gentle spirit in Elmhurst, Illinois. When Skip was almost 2 years old, he and his family moved to Kingman, AZ for a quieter life.

Growing up, Skip was an avid athlete and played football, basketball, and track. He loved being outdoors and enjoyed camping, fishing, and tinkering with cars.

After graduating from Kingman High School in 1974, Skip studied at the Devry Institute of Technology in Phoenix, AZ earning his Electronic Technician certificate in 1979. Upon completing this certificate, Skip worked for Motorola which later became General Dynamics, and worked there for 32 years.

Having found success in his professional life, Skip attended many church socials, where he eventually met the love of his life, Virginia “Ginger” Martin, and never looked back. They were married on March 11, 1981, and were blessed to spend over 42 blissful years together.

Skip enjoyed spending his free time with his wife and two sons. He was a ham radio enthusiast, an active leader in the Scouting program, and served in various positions in his church in both Phoenix and Chandler, AZ.

In 1997, Skip was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis, and though this impacted his life greatly, and eventually prohibited most physical activity, Skip remained upbeat. Despite his health struggles, he continued to find joy in the little things, and always saw the best in people. His unconditional love and genuine positivity touched all who knew him.

He was a beloved son, brother, husband, father, friend, and grandpa. He is survived by his eldest brother Russell (Sherrine) Petry, his wife, Ginger, and two sons, James (Kristina) Petry and Jared (Samantha) Petry, and eight precious grandchildren: Harmony, Kasondra, Coby, Nicolas, Aleczander, Edom, Dyana, and Monson.

Skip leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and resilience. He will be dearly missed and we will cherish his memory in our hearts always. Stay Safe, Bud. 

The funeral service will be held on Wednesday, January 24, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. at THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS: 1280 W Del Rio Street, Chandler, AZ 85224. 

Charles will be laid to rest in the VALLEY OF THE SUN CEMETERY following the service: 10940 E Chandler Heights Rd, Chandler, AZ 85248.