Obituary of John M. Petrella

John M. Petrella 76 of Cortland passed away on September 24, 2020 at home cared for by his wife. He was born on February 5, 1944 in Augusta, Georgia a son of John and Betty Allgood Petrella, Sr. John and his brother Bobby started in the Auto Body Business while still in grade school learning the trade from their Uncle Lou Petrella in Pokeville. His first body shop was in Little York in the early 1970's. He partnered with his brother in 1973 at Fisher Ave Auto Body. Their last shop was Petrella Bros. Auto Body on Luker Rd. John attended auctions spanning over 30 years some of which were State Line Auto, Manheim Auto Auction, Tri-State and many more selling cars under his business Premium Auto. His involvement in the Auto Industry created friendships and relationships that lasted a life time. John loved cars and motorcycles. When he wasn't working on cars he built a 1934 Ford from a fiber glass kit, or riding his Harley's whether it was his chopper, his Harley Sturgis, Road King or Street Glide. Johnny always had a smile on his face and a joke to tell. To his friends he was true. Everyone who knew him remembers his positive attitude and kindness. He will be missed by all. John is survived by his loving wife, Angelica Camillo, three sons, Tony Petrella, Dino, Petrella, Blake Petrella, two daughters, Cindy Petrella, Nakita (Sam) Petrella-Jones, his mother, Betty Petrella, one brother Robert "Bobby" Petrella, one sister, Patti (James) Riotto, four grandchildren, Luke, Alexis, Paris, and Joanna; one great grandchild Scarlett, and several nieces and nephews. John was predeceased by his father, John Petrella, Sr. and uncles Charlie, Lou, and Tony Petrella. Calling hours for family and friends will be 10 AM – 12 PM Saturday, October 10 at Wright-Beard Funeral Home, Inc. 9 Lincoln Ave. Cortland. We will be following NYS Guidelines regarding capacity and social distancing. Face and nose covering are required. Private family burial will take place in St. Mary's Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Cortland SPCA.