The death Monday night of three-term State Republican Representative Peter Pettalia is reverberating across the state including from the Michigan Lodging & Tourism Association where he was a revered and trusted voice for the industry. Pure Michigan is considerably sadder today in light of Pettalia's tragic death while riding his motorcycle in Montmorency County last evening.
Deanna Richeson is President & CEO of the Michigan Lodging & Tourism Association. She issued a statement on behalf of her association saying, "I want to express our shock and sadness over the passing of State Representative Peter Pattalia. Our thoughts and prayers are extended to his family and all those he touched during his service to our great state."
Richeson adds, "Peter was a tireless advocate for Michigan and for the tourism industry. As Chair of the House Committee on Tourism, he understood the vital importance of the state's third largest industry. His efforts were deservedly recognized in 2015 when he was awarded MLTA's Legislator of the Year. Michigan has lost a dedicated statesman and trusted voice for Pure Michigan."
Stevensville's State Representative Al Pscholka was equally shocked, posting to Facebook the following message:
"Lesson for 2016 – I will spend more time with the people I love and who love me. First it was Denise (Bohn), then Joe and Ron (Zangaro and Kienzle), and now my good buddy and colleague Pete Pattalia. I will spend less time on Facebook and my cell phone. To those of you who trash me on Facebook, I pray for you and hope you will find some real meaning in your life. Please pray today for Karen Pettalia, a sweet and loving woman enduring the loss of a really great family man who loved life and the North. Love you Pete."
Michigan Governor Rick Snyder also shared his grief with friends and family in a Facebook post:
"Sue and I were heartbroken to hear of the death of Representative Pettalia and send condolences on behalf of the entire state to his family, colleagues and friends. Peter’s wife, Karen, their children and grandchildren are in our thoughts and prayers especially as they deal with this tragedy. Peter had a long career committed to helping the people he represented and served, whether as a volunteer firefighter, a township supervisor, or a state representative. He will be missed by many people here in Lansing as well as in his long-time home of Presque Isle and throughout his district."
