Rod Pettes, a devoted husband, father, and grandfather passed away at the age of 67, leaving behind a love for his family and friends.

Born and raised in Garland, Texas, Rod was the son of Pete and Jolinda Pettes.  Spending his adult years building a beautiful life and raising his family in Dallas.

Family was unequivocally Rod's cornerstone. He was the absolute best husband, Dad, and Grandaddy anyone could ever ask for. He shared 46 wonderful years of marriage to his wife, Lanie Pettes. Together, they raised their son, Jeff, and their daughter, Lindsey. Rod welcomed his son-in-law, Preston

Sharp, into the family, frequently remarking that he couldn't have picked a better man for his daughter. In recent years, his greatest joy was found in his role as "Grandaddy" to his precious granddaughter, Charlie Mae Sharp, whom he adored beyond measure.

Rod was universally known as a fun-loving man with a brilliant sense of humor. He possessed an infectious joy for life that made him a pleasure to be around. He never met a stranger and was always the first to offer a helping hand to anyone in need, taking genuine pleasure in doing for others. His generous spirit was matched by his loyalty to his friends—maintaining lifelong friendships that spanned 40 and 50 plus years.

Rod became a member of the Sheet Metal Workers Local Union 68 in 1982.  He completed a four-year apprenticeship program while working full-time during the day, graduating in  1986. Rod spent many successful years mastering his craft in the sheet metal shop. Passionate about passing on his trade, he also served as an evening instructor for the sheet metal apprenticeship program from 1996 to 2006. He was a notoriously hard worker who took great pride in his craft; whether battling intolerable summer heat or freezing winter cold, Rod was always there, setting the standard. Above all, he took immense pride in providing for the family he loved so dearly.

Though he loved to work, Rod was thoroughly enjoying his well-deserved retirement. His favorite place was to be outdoors, particularly at Preston and Lindsey's land in Streetman, Texas, which had been his absolute joy for the past seven years. He spent his happiest hours hunting, fishing, and embracing the quiet beauty of nature. This past year, Rod and Lanie were in the process of building a small house on the property, creating a place of their own close to the family that meant everything to him.

SURVIVED BY

Rod is survived by his loving wife of 46 years, Lanie Pettes of Dallas, TX; his son, Jeff Pettes of Dallas, TX; his daughter and son-in-law, Lindsey and Preston Sharp of Argyle, TX; his granddaughter, Charlie Mae Sharp and Preston and Lindsey's nephews Jayce and Colton Sharp and his mother-in-law Joanne Wren of Dallas, Texas. He also leaves behind numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nephews, and an extensive circle of extended family and lifelong friends.

PRECEDED IN DEATH BY

Rod is preceded in death by his parents, Pete and Jolinda Pettes and his father-in-law Don Wren.

A memorial service will be held Friday, June 19th at 10:00 am at the Frist Christian Church of Garland located at 115 S. Glenbrook Drive, Garland, TX  75040.  In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made either to the American Heart Association or American Cancer Society in the name of Rod Pettes.