He was raised in the Rio Grande Valley near Raymondville, Texas where he went to school and graduated. He attended St. Anthony's seminary in San Antonio for a short time before returning to the Valley where he met his wife Lois (Eloisa) Gonzales. Shortly after their marriage on July 31st, 1958 they moved to the big city of Houston to find new opportunities. There they settled and Ben became a salesman. He had his own business, B-L drafting for 25 years selling engineering and drafting equipment to major Oil and Gas and Engineering firms in the Houston area. He ended his career at MW Industries where he retired. He worked for Peter Mess, a fellow Knight, who became his best and closest friend until the day he died.
Ben and Lois celebrated their 65th Wedding Anniversary on July 31st, 2023. Ben was an extremely faithful man and contributed greatly to Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Conroe and was in the Knights of Columbus. Over the years he served others in many ways such as assisting refugees in their transition to the U.S. by helping them find homes, cars, clothing, and work.
He is survived by his wife, Lois; sons, Perry and Kelly; daughter in laws, Connie and Sheila; daughter, Lana; grandsons, Keith, Shane and Luke; great grandson, Liam; brothers, Eddie and Larry; and sister, Dorothy; as well as the many members of the Petru clan which are too many to name.
Ben Petru made an impact on all of those around him and he will be greatly missed. May God rest his soul and may he remain at peace for eternity.
Visitation will be held on Monday, January 29, 2024 from 5:00pm to 7:00pm with a Rosary beginning at 6:00pm at Cashner Funeral Home in Conroe, Texas. Funeral Mass will be held on Tuesday, January 30, 2024 at 2:00pm at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Conroe, Texas. Reception immediately following Mass in the Church Parish Hall.
