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Jerry Duane Petruzzi
December 31, 1950 — July 12, 2025
Jerry Duane Petruzzi was born in Murray, Utah, on December 31, 1950, and passed away in Murray on July 12, 2025, at the age of 74. He was a beloved father to Landon (Becky), cherished brother to Priscilla, Craig (Julie), and Connie (Brendon)Cordova, and loving nieces and nephews and many cousins.
Duane was born to Jerry C. Petruzzi and Betty Elizabeth (Bonecher) Petruzzi, proudly 100% Italian. From a young age, his curiosity and love of learning stood out. His mother began calling him "The Professor" because he was always asking thoughtful questions, offering confident answers, and eagerly trying to understand how the world worked.
Duane was known for his astute mind, quiet insight, and the deep kindness that guided how he lived and how he loved.
A man gifted with perseverance.
As a boy, Duane could often be found carefully investigating his Nonna's toolbox, fascinated by its contents and determined to figure out how every tool functioned. Determination was an asset and gift Duane possessed. He became an Eagle Scout, ardently pursuing each step to reach the very impressive goal. His natural curiosity grew into a thoughtful and steady kind of leadership. He became co-chairman of the student body at Midvale Junior High, and on the football field at Hillcrest High School, he played with both heart and focus, earning the trust of teammates and coaches alike. His quiet confidence and sharp mind made him someone others looked up to.
Duane earned both a bachelor's and a master's degree in Business Administration from the University of Utah and Westminster College. He worked in business and finance roles at multiple companies and also served as the family consultant for all financial needs. He answered all questions for family, no matter the subject. He served his country in the United States Army as a parachute rigger.
Duane's greatest joy and most important role was being a father. He and his son Landon were best friends, inseparable, steadfast, and always supportive of one another. They shared a bond rooted in love, trust, and deep loyalty. Together, they traveled far and wide, to Wrigley Field in Chicago, to Boston, Florida, Hawaii, and always to spring training in Arizona to cheer for the Cubs. Travels to always remember.
He loved walking Jackson, whom he called his grand-dog when visiting Arizona. Following each walk, he shared detailed stories about their adventures that made everyone smile.
Duane was a devoted Cubs and Bears fan and a season ticket holder of the University of Utah football games. He appreciated meaningful travel, good conversation, and true friendships.
Duane lived with humility, integrity, and love. He made the world better and leaves a lasting legacy of kindness and joy.
Rosary: Friday, July 18, 2025 from 6:00PM to 6:20 PM
Viewing : Friday, July 18, 2025 from 6:20PM to 8:00PM
Funeral: Saturday, July 19, 2025 at 11:00AM with a viewing prior to services at 10:00AM
Memorial Mountain View Mortuary at 3115 East 7800 South (Bengal Blvd.) Cottonwood Heights, Utah
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Sterling Jenson
Duane and I were next door neighbors through elementary, junior high and high schools. We played countless neighborhood games together with others in the neighborhood, including Cliff Nielson from our class. Duane was always kind to everyone and his popularity lead him to be elected Student Body President in Jr. High. It's been many years since I have seen him but he will always be a friend in my heart.
Cliff Nielson
I grew up across the street from Duane and Sterling. We played a lot of football, baseball and basketball together. Duane was always good at whatever he did. He was good to his brother and sisters. I have picture of me with Duane when we received our Eagle Scout awards together. The picture is now more meaningful. We exchanged a few emails with each other a few years back. It was good to connect with him. I loved reading his obituary.
Marilyn Miller (Cox)
Duane was in my 9th grade geography class and when we did a research paper on a country, Duane led out in writing the longest research paper. He started a competition in the class and we all wrote long papers, but he was so far ahead, no one's paper was as long as his. The obituary really captured him as I remember him.