Born in Middlebury, Connecticut on August 2, 1946, Bob was one of two children of the late Robert and Gladys (Jessiman) Petitjean. He was raised in Middlebury, graduated from Woodbury High School, and enlisted in the United States Air Force. He served his country with pride and dedication for four years during the Vietnam War as a Sargent, receiving an honorable discharge on April 24, 1970. After traveling in Europe, Bob met Melrose native, Lyta Monello at a party in Marblehead and quickly fell in love. They were married in 1977, and settled in Melrose to raise a family of three children. Bob went to electrical school, and became a Manufacturer’s Representative, selling electrical and construction supplies to vendors throughout New England.
A sports fan for his entire life, Bob was an enthusiastic supporter and fan of all sports. Originally a Yankees fan from CT, he became a Red Sox fan after moving to Melrose and never looked back. He always had the game on, and was watching his beloved Red Sox in his last days. A dedicated family man and father, Bob took pride in coaching his three children in youth hockey, baseball and softball.
Bob enjoyed playing tennis with Lyta or golf with his friends at Bellevue Golf Club. He also loved skiing with his family, skied all over Europe while in the Air Force, and spent many memorable days on the water sailing with family and friends. For nearly every summer, Falmouth was a favorite vacation spot and he enjoyed many beach or sailing days.
Bob’s family was the center of his life. Family was his proudest accomplishment, and he took great joy in his children and then his grandchildren. Bob was always quietly there and ready to help, bring you something or share his uplifting smile. His steady nature, caring support, and quiet affection were his hallmarks. He watched with great joy as his family grew to include grandchildren, which meant more athletic events, and laughter to enjoy. A proud yet humble guy, Bob held his Scottish roots close to his heart. More recently, Bob enjoyed his daily routine of reading the Boston Herald, doing the crossword and Sudoku, and watching the Red Sox.
Universally loved, Bob never had a bad word to say about anyone, and regularly greeted you with his trademark grin. For his friends and family, he quietly brought a little joy and laughter wherever he was. Bob will be deeply missed, but his one-liners, smile, and selfless support will be forever treasured, and will carry on as his legacy.
Bob was the beloved husband of Lyta L. (Monello) Petitjean with whom he shared 44 years of marriage. Cherished father of Robert Petitjean and his wife, Jayme; Ashley Stanziani and her husband, Robert and Amanda Ryan and her husband, Joseph, all of Peabody. Proud grandfather of Jordyn and Robbie Petitjean, Kayleigh Browne, Robbie and Ray Stanziani, and Ava, Joe Joe, and Chase Ryan. Dear brother of the late Clifford Petitjean, and brother-in-law of Dennis Monello of Waltham. Also survived by several nieces and nephews.
Relatives and friends are invited to gather during visiting hours at the Robinson Funeral Home, 809 Main St., Melrose on Monday, Sept. 20 from 4-8 p.m., and for his funeral service at the First United Methodist Church, 645 Main St., Melrose celebrated on Tuesday, Sept. 21 at 10 a.m. Masks are kindly requested. Interment with military honors by the US Air Force at Puritan Lawn Memorial Park, Peabody. If you wish, gifts in memory of Bob Petitjean may be made to the Pan Mass Challenge, 77 4th Ave., Needham MA 02494. For online tribute please visit RobinsonFuneralHome.com.
