Margaret Petta, 86, formerly of Sheboygan, passed away Sunday, May 26, 2013 at Peabody Manor in Appleton where she had been residing. Born December 11, 1926 in Wautoma, Margaret was a daughter of the late Arthur and Millie Bartz Koechel. She attended area schools and graduated from Wautoma High School. On January 25, 1947, she was united in marriage to Harold Petta at Grace Evangelical United Brethren Church in Wautoma. They were married for 57 years before Harold preceded her in death on March 14, 2004. Margaret worked in retail for Younkers for 17 years, retiring in 2008. She previously worked at Prange's for 16 years, J.C. Penney's for 6 ½ years and at Thimmig's Restaurant for many years. She was a member of Fountain Park United Methodist Church. She loved all animals and raised many dachshunds over the years. She also enjoyed bowling in her younger years. She is survived by her two sons, Harold (Lee) Petta, Appleton, and Paul Petta, Sheboygan; five grandchildren, Erin (John) Krueger, Neenah, Devon (John) Little, Greenville, WI, Ian Petta, Maryland, Lori Petta (Knigtdale,) NC, and Neil (Kazumi) Petta, Maryland; (three) great grandchildren, Sarah Krueger, Isaac Krueger and Lauren Little; and her sister, Marianne (Willard) Herman, Sheboygan; nieces, nephews, and her very dear friend, Donna Eirich. Besides her parents and husband, Harold, she was preceded in death by her brother Arley Koechel, her sister Adeline Koechel and her beloved long haired dachshund Bouncer V. Funeral services for Margaret will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, May 31, 2013 at Fountain Park United Methodist Church. Pastor Warren Waddell and Rev. Tom White will co-officiate. Family and friends are welcome at the church on Friday from 9:00 a.m. until the time of service. Entombment will take place in the Gardens of peace Mausoleum. A memorial fund has been established in her name. The family would like to thank the nurses and staff of Peabody Manor, especially Kathy and "Sammy", for all of their loving care and support. The Lippert-Olson Funeral Home has been entrusted with Margaret's arrangements.
