David Petro

David Samuel Petro, passed away in the early morning of January 14, 2022, in his home in Riviera, Texas, at the age of 75, with his loving wife of 52 years holding his hand.  DSP, known as Papa to his six grandchildren, referred to himself as “The Old Italian.” He graduated Summa Cum Laude from New York University in 1968 and served as an officer in the US Navy until 1972, where he trained as a naval aviator and earned his wings.  On May 30, 1970, he married Linda Hamilton and went on to rear seven children with her, while running a successful commercial real estate business in Atlanta, Georgia.

He loved collecting, “from his numerous children”, to sports cars, motorcycles, guns, knives, and tactical gear. A masterful storyteller and history buff, he had a true love for adventure and the outdoors. He was unfailingly charitable and always quick to support a good cause. Active in his church, he funded and helped develop a Presbyterian church and K-12 school; and contributed to countless other Christian missions.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Helen and Sylvester Petro; sister, April Silvius Petro.

Among those left to cherish his memory are his wife, Linda Hamilton Petro; seven children, Nicole, Skip, Hilary, Luke, Abigail, Maria and David, and their spouses; brother, Samuel (Faye) Petro; and six grandchildren.

A graveside service will take place on Monday, January 17, at 3:00PM at Riviera Cemetery.