Mary Jo "Jo" Petroshus

Mary Jo "Jo" Petroshus, age 72, of Battle Creek died unexpectedly on Saturday, October 5, 2013. She was born in Battle Creek on September 7, 1941 to Edward and Mary (Sikorskas) Petroshus.

Mary Jo graduated from St. Philip High School with the Class of 1959, furthered her education at KCC, and received her Bachelor's Degree from Michigan State University. In 2006, Mary Jo retired after 37 years at the Calhoun County Juvenile Court, where she was an enthusiastic and caring advocate for children.

Mary Jo will be deeply missed by her sister, Anita Hallas; her nephew, Michael Hallas (Bridget); her niece, Kelly Hallas; her aunt, Helen Hitchcock, and many cherished cousins and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, David Petroshus; her infant brother, Joseph Petroshus, and numerous aunts & uncles.

Mary Jo was known for her generous, fun-loving nature, devotion to family, and ability to make others feel special. She loved fishing, watching the Tigers, and going to casinos. Her favorite place in the world was her beloved cabin near Baldwin, where she could be found floating in an inner tube, playing cards with friends, or enjoying sunsets at Ludington.

A visitation will be held 4:00 to 8:00 p.m., Wednesday, October 9, 2013 at the Farley-Estes & Dowdle Funeral Home where the Parish Rosary will be recited at 7:00 p.m., Wednesday. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by Fr. John D. Fleckenstein at 11:00 a.m., Thursday, October 10, 2013 at the St. Philip Roman Catholic Church. Interment will follow at Oakwood Cemetery in Allegan. Memorial contributions may be made to the Battle Creek Area Catholic Schools Foundation. Personal messages for the family may be placed at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.