John Petrovich Obituary

Durango resident John Richard Petrovich, Jr. died of pancreatic cancer Tuesday, July 8, 2014, in his home. He was 67.

He was born to John and Gladys Petrovich on Oct. 26, 1946, in Methuen, Massachusetts. He grew up in Lawrence, Massachusetts, and graduated from Lawrence High School in 1965. After graduation, he attended a computer programming school in the Boston area.

While living in Lawrence, he worked as a computer programmer for many major companies such as United and Continental Airlines, according to his family.

He moved to New Mexico in 1994, where he met his life partner, Maria "Angie" Viarrial. The couple moved to Durango in 1996. They were married Aug. 2, 2013.

Mr. Petrovich loved Colorado and enjoyed nature walks and bird watching. He also enjoyed reading and absorbing knowledge, according to his family. "Most of all, John enjoyed spending time with his family and grandchildren."

A spiritual man, he focused on meditation, natural and herbal treatments and mother earth life and beauty, according to his family.

He is survived by his wife, Maria Petrovich, of Durango; children, Andy Petrovich, of Bayfield, Robin Sheeley, of Evans and Erik Petrovich Sr., of England; sister, Susan Hamilton, of Quakertown, Pennsylvania; nine grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

A private family memorial service has been held.

In lieu of flowers, please forward a random act of kindness to a stranger.