Donald O. Pettichord, 83, of Valparaiso passed away Saturday, June 21, 2025. He was born December 12, 1941, in Portland, Oregon to Orville O. & Agnes (Strand) Pettichord. Don served proudly with the U.S. Army as a dog handler at the Wheeler, Indiana Nike Missile Base from 1961 -63, then made his career as a Scarfer and Crane Operator with Bethlehem Steel for nearly 30 years. In his younger years he enjoyed as much time as possible on the region golf courses. In later years it became trips to the Blue Chip Casino that brought him entertainment and leisure.
Survivors include his children: Jodi (Donny) Nielsen of Valparaiso, Joy (Joe) Meece of Michigan City, Jill (Chris) Saenz of Conway, South Carolina, Amy Benjamin of Niagara Falls, New York, sister, Nancy (John), grandchildren: Sean (Carolyn) Nielsen, Michael (Lydia) Nielsen, Tyler (Samantha) Nielsen, Joey Meece, Danny (Abby) Meece, Brandon & Brittny Benjamin, Anna & Emily Saenz, and seven great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Theresa Pettichord in 2022, and two sisters, Lorene & Marilyn.
Following cremation at Angelcrest Crematory a private family committal will be held at a National Cemetery.
