Robert Pretto

ROBERT PRETTO LORETTO – Pretto from Loretto, age 79 went to be with our Lord on Wednesday, December 21, 2005 at Dickinson Co. Memorial Hospital, Iron Mountain, MI., surrounded by his loving family. Pretto was born in Crystal Falls on March 6, 1926 the son of the late Santo and Mary (Lombardini) Pretto. Orphaned at an early age Pretto found a loving home with his mothers sister Jennie Mauro, her husband Joe and two cousins Rose and Andrew Mauro. Pretto married Ruth Casagranda on November 19, 1949 in St. Agnes Church in Iron River. They celebrated 56 years of marriage. Pretto served his country in the U.S. Army during World War II, which included a tour of duty in Korea. Pretto moved to Detroit to raise a family. In June of 1972, he returned to Loretto and operated Pretto Service for 17 years. In 1989 he moved to Hamilton Lakes. In the summer it was a common sight to see him on his riding lawn mower. He was a member of the Vulcan-Norway-Loretto Lions Club and the Loyal order of Moose, #1474 in Norway. He enjoyed bowling and horseshoes. Pretto was a tireless sports fan and enjoyed watching his grandchildren in sports. He is survived by his loving and caring wife Ruth; three children Sandy (Chris) Hamel of Clemmons, N.C., Debbie (Jim) Peterson of Vulcan and Robert Pretto, Jr. of Vulcan; grandchildren Tony (Jen) Adams, Brian (Carli) Adams, Kelly Adams, Heather, Katie and Dan Peterson, Jeremy and Danica Pretto, Jeff, Kristen and Laurie Hamel; great grandchildren Zandria Jade Kell and Taylor Adams brought him great joy in his final days; dear aunt; many nieces, nephews and cousins. Pretto was happiest when surrounded by his family and friends, his love for life had no limit. He will be best remembered for his generous caring heart, his unselfish manner and his encouraging words. Family will greet friends on Monday, December 26 from 9 to 10:30 a.m. at St. Barbara's Church in Vulcan The Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday at 11 a.m. at St. Barbara's Church, with Fr. Joy Adimakkeel presiding. Interment will be held in the spring at the Norway Township Cemetery.

Robert Pretto

March 6, 1926 - December 21, 2005