Annette Markese Petty

August 9, 1948 - September 4, 2024

The beautiful Annette Markese Petty passed away unexpectedly, yet peacefully, surrounded by her loving family in Helena, Montana. Annette was born in Chicago, Illinois to parents Ernest and Louise Markese. Annette was the only daughter, having four brothers:  Vince '64, Robert '74, Jimmy '78, and Michael. The family moved to South Pasadena where Annette grew up and attended school.

In 1961, at the age of 13, Annette witnessed a serious car accident and rushed to the scene, praying for the young man injured. These two would meet again in 1962 and in 1964. In 1968, that young man, Bill Berrigan '66, asked her to be his wife. A story we love hearing about to this day. They moved to Montana and started a life having three children:  Shawnna, Jason, and Erin. Annette loved her kids more than anything. Annette and Bill later divorced but stayed friends throughout their lives.

In 1986, Annette met and married the love of her life, Curt Petty. They were best friends and thoroughly enjoyed every minute with their family. They had a special love; one that inspired others around them. Where Grammi was, so was Grandpi. Their devotion to one another was truly beautiful. Annette was an amazing mother, but her grandkids were her world. Grammi was always there for them and made each one feel truly special.

Almost as much as Grammi loved her family, she loved to sew. She was incredibly talented and so creative. Her family benefited from those talents with beautiful quilts, purses, and amazing leatherwork. Grammi was always doing something new and beautiful, and it was always perfect. Grammi didn't settle for anything that wasn't perfect.

Her genuine kindness and bright smile always stood out. She was loved by all who knew her. She will be incredibly missed. Annette is survived by her best friend and husband, Curt Petty; daughters Shawnna Berrigan and Erin Berrigan-Stroop (Alan); six grandkids, and six great-grandkids; close friend Billi Heigh as well as beloved nieces and nephews. She is joyfully living with Jesus in Heaven with her son, Jason Berrigan, parents Ernest and Louise Markese, and brothers, Vince and Robert Markese.

Grammi will always and forever be in our hearts. It's not our final goodbye, it's until we see you again. We know you'll be our guardian angel looking over us all from Heaven.

Independent Record, September 17, 2024