Pamela Pettinari

Pamela L. Pettinari, 50 years, of Monroe, MI passed away Thursday, June 3, 2010 in Monroe after a prolonged yet courageous 8 year battle with cancer. Pam was born August 29, 1959 in New London, CT, the daughter of Spencer and Pearl (Williams) Lancaster. Pam was a 1977 graduate of The Williams High School also in New London. Pam received her bachelor’s degree in physical education from Skidmore College in Saratoga Springs, NY. On August 6, 1983 Pam married the love of her life David G. Pettinari in the Harkness Chapel at Connecticut College in New London, CT. Pam was employed in various retail management positions for Luxottica Optical for 22 years. While at Luxottica, Pam traveled to third world countries as a missionary to donate glasses to the poor through the Gift of Sight Program. Pam enjoyed playing golf and was a former member of the Monroe Golf and Country Club. Pam attained every golfers dream by scoring a hole in one in tournament play. Pam served on the board of directors at Mercy Memorial Hospital and Big Brothers/Big Sisters, both in Monroe. She was a volunteer for Karmanos Cancer Institute where she was involved with the orientation of new patients and a volunteer for Relay For Life. On 9/11 Pam was working out in the World Trade Center when it was struck by terrorists. In 2004 she was in the Rose Bowl Parade. Pam also donated a kidney to her older sister Gilda. Pam was a truly an amazing and selfless woman who lived a full and vibrant life and was an inspiration to all who knew her. Pam is survived by her beloved husband David, her loving parents Spencer and Pearl of New London, CT, 5 cherished siblings; Spencer Lancaster Jr. of Norwich, CT, Robert (Helen) Lancaster of Norwich, CT, Gilda Butler of Groton, CT, Margaret (Harold) Jones of New Haven, CT, and Tricia (Gerald) Lee of Windsor, CT. a sister in law; Donna (Bruce) Rinehart of New London, CT and a host of nieces and nephews. A memorial service celebrating Pam’s life will be held on Wednesday, June 16, 2010 at 6:00 PM in the Port-N-Starboard Room at Ocean Beach State Park. The Rev. Barbara White will officiate. In keeping with Pam’s wishes cremation has taken place. On Saturday, June 19, 2010 her family will receive friends from 1:00 PM in the Bacarella Funeral Home, 1201 S. Telegraph Rd., in Monroe where a memorial service celebrating her life will begin at 3:00 PM. Memorial contributions are suggested to the Ovarian Cancer National Alliance or to the American Leukemia/Lymphoma Society.