Richard Pettit

Richard Clint Pettitt, 76, of Oracle Arizona, passed away on August 31, 2024, due to Cancer. Richard was born on February 3rd, 1948, to Loney and Cecilia Pettitt in Feather River Canyon in a tent town in the mountains of California. Richard was born prematurely at less than 2 lbs., reportedly small enough to fit in his father's hand or a shoe box. 

At a young age, the family relocated to Arizona where he was mostly raised in Mammoth. Richard was usually found working with his father, Loney, on a car or truck at "the shop" as it was affectionately called, engaging in a number of sports, or racing his muscle car through the tri-city streets. 

After Richard graduated from San Manuel high school in 1966, he quickly enlisted to serve his country joining the Marine Corps to fight in the Vietnam War. Richard earned three purple hearts and was recognized in several published books for his units' achievements in several battles and unwavering bravery and patriotism. After being shot several times in the stomach and spine while walking point in Hue City during the Tet Offensive, Richard was honorably discharged after completing one year of admission in the hospital, miraculously fully recovered. 

Richard retuned opening a service station in Mammoth Arizona and worked construction before pursuing a career in law enforcement. Richard and Stefanie Lebar were married in the 70's and welcomed two daughters, Dinelle and Annette Pettitt. Richard entered his law enforcement career in the late 70's while living in San Manuel. Richard and Stefanie divorced in the late 70's. Richard originally worked with Pinal County Sherriff's department however then transitioned to Pima County Sheriff's office. Richard remarried in the early 80's to Laura Pettitt, formerly Laura Lisk. Richard and Laura welcomed a son, Chad Pettitt in the late 80's. Richard, while working with Pima County Sherriff's department earned the privilege of becoming a SWAT team sniper as well as a K-9 handler and trainer. Richard was recognized and awarded the Medal of Valor, law enforcement/police officer of the year (two times,) along with countless other commendations before retiring in 2004. Richard also was a recognized national K-9 trial judge and traveled throughout the United States highly respected, as well as assisted in the selection of K-9's for several agencies. 

Richard retired to Oracle, Arizona where he continued his passion for building and driving classic cars and taking camping trips with family and friends in his cherished fifth wheel. Richard worked tirelessly on his 1937 Ford Sedan, 1962 Ford Fairlane, and 1965 Pontiac GTO. Richard fully enjoyed his retirement surrounded by his family and grandchildren loving life. 

Richard is preceded in death by his loving parents, Loney and Cecilia Pettitt. Richard is further survived by his wife, Laura Pettitt, siblings Renee Pettitt and Roseanne Lauritzen, children Dinelle Pettitt Caldwell, Annette Karlsberg with her husband Dan Karlsberg, and Chad Pettitt with his wife Cassie Pettitt. Richard is also further survived by his Grandchildren, Daylin Pettitt, Aubrey Pettitt, Dalanna and Brody Karlsberg, and Camryn, Samson, and Paxton Pettitt and great grandchildren Jaxon Belliveau and Lyla Pettitt. Richard is also survived by his bonus grandchildren Yahir, Joseph, and Shanell Valenzuela -Valdivia. 

In July of 2024, Richard was surprisingly diagnosed with widespread Cancer in his pancreas, spine, lungs, and liver. Richard passed peacefully, surrounded by his loving family in the comfort of his own home on August 31, 2024, at 4:31pm. Richard was fierce, a force to be reckoned with in every aspect. He never knew fear and on the very off chance he did, he never let it show or guide his decisions. He was revered, at times feared however always and forever recognized for his love of life, orneriness, and all around charismatic tough guy. His family will forever mourn our loss however he will remain in our hearts, and family stories. 

Please join the family, in honoring and celebrating the life of Richard Clint Pettitt, better known as Rich or Ricardo on September 21st, 2024, at Vistoso Funeral home. The viewing will be from 8am-10am, 10 am funeral service, and followed luncheon. Those who prefer may also join the family in the burial post luncheon in Thatcher, Arizona located at 3950 W 8th St.