Garry Lee "Little Pete" Petree
November 20, 1942 - April 8, 2019
Garry Lee "Little Pete" Petree, age 76, of La Plata, Missouri, passed away Monday, April 8, 2019, in Columbia, Missouri.
Pete was born on November 20, 1942, in Novelty, Missouri, the son of Oren Ray and Louise (Riley) Petree. He was a 1960 graduate of Brashear High School. Pete especially enjoyed going to his class reunions, often with his daughter Becky.
On February 29, 1964, Pete married Beth (McHenry) who survives of the home in rural La Plata. Also surviving are his children, Allen (Jeanne) Petree, Becky (Doug) Thomas, and Polly Lea Petree; his pride and joy, grandchildren, Matthew (Lindsey), Nick, Meredith (Joel) and Gabe Thomas, Mindi and Maci Petree; two siblings, Randy Johnson and Cris McIntosh; and his beloved beagles, Hunter and Ladybug as well as Toby and Blackie.
Pete attended Missouri School of Mines, now Missouri University of Science & Technology in Rolla, Missouri. He was a surveyor and draftsman for the Missouri Highway Department's Division of Survey & Plans for 18 years. He also maintained an auto dealer license. In 1982, Pete conceived and founded P-R Distributors, an auto dealer supply company. He continued working on his business and was proud to have loyal customers.
Pete was an avid motorcyclist and he and Beth enjoyed many trips. Pete loved country music, and planting a large garden. He raised a few beef cattle. Another love was visiting and drinking coffee with his many friends! Pete's greatest pleasures were his children and grandchildren. Pete visited many friends at area nursing homes. He never knew a stranger!
Pete recently received his Masonic Lodge 50 year member pin. He was a past Grand Master of the La Plata Lodge.
Funeral services will be 11:00 a.m. Friday, April 12, 2019 at Travis Funeral Chapel in La Plata, Missouri. Burial will be in the McHenry Family Cemetery, southwest of La Plata. Pallbearers will be Joel Sevits, Matt Thomas, Nick Thomas, Gabe Thomas, Doug Thomas, and Ron Clevenger. Honorary Pallbearers will be Kyle Smith, Mike Buck, and Justin Coy.
Visitation will be Thursday, April 11, 2019 with the family receiving friends from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Masonic services will be at 7:00 p.m.
Because Pete was an animal lover, memorials may go to the Adair County Humane Shelter in Kirksville. Memorials may be left at or sent to Travis Funeral Chapel, 125 S. Church Street, La Plata, MO 63549.
