- Date Of Birth: February 19, 1925
- Date Of Death: October 27, 2018
- State: Maryland
Alfred Michael Petrogallo, age 93, passed away peacefully at his home in Columbia, Maryland, on October 27, 2018. He was born on February 19, 1925 in Altoona, Pennsylvania to Michael Ross and Gilda (Sciarillo) Petrogallo. He was the second oldest and sole survivor of his four siblings (Ellen Lioy, Rudolph “Rudy” Petrogallo, Bettie Labriola and Emma Palmeri).
Following a brief tenure working for the Pennsylvania Railroad, Mr. Petrogallo attended the Western Pennsylvania Horological Institute in Pittsburgh, PA, studying business administration and horology (watchmaking). Upon graduation, he worked as a watchmaker in Bellefonte, PA, married his wife of 69 years, Elizabeth “Betty” Spinazzola, and was recalled to active duty in August, 1950, during the Korean War. His initial assignment was to Ft. Eustis, VA, then to the Ordnance School in Aberdeen, MD. He completed his military obligation in May, 1952 at Aberdeen Proving Ground, as the Senior Enlisted Instructor of the Fire Control Division. Upon discharge, he accepted a position as a civilian instructor in the Precision Instruments Division of the Ordnance School. Following a series of promotions, he became the Assistant Director of the Weapons Training Department, and retired from the position of Chief, Program Management Office of the U.S. Army Ordnance School.
Throughout retirement, Mr. Petrogallo enjoyed the freedom to pursue hobbies, spend much quality time with his children and grandchildren, and travel with his wife and family.
Mr. Petrogallo is survived by his beloved wife, Betty, his three daughters, who he lovingly referred to as his “PetroGals”: Denise Petrogallo, Michele Pearlman (Steven) and Janette McAnallen (Stephen), five grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren. His legacy will manifest itself through his family’s love of music, humor, travel and country.
