Arthur “Art” Petit passed away peacefully at the age of 85 on February 21, 2026.

Art will be lovingly remembered by his devoted wife of 65 years, Barbara Jean Petit, and by his children, grandchildren, and great‑grandchildren. He is survived by his wife, son Mark Petit (wife Joan, and children Alexandria- husband Aaron, children Kay and Rosie; Maxwell - wife Annika, son Arthur; Sarah; and Jenna); his son Kevin Petit (partner Rebecca Bell); his daughter Laura Pizzuti (husband Brian, and children Maverick, Amanda, and Tanner); and his brother Robert “Pete” Petit (wife Diane). He was predeceased by his oldest son, David Paul.

Art was born on October 31, 1940, in Detroit, Michigan, the son of Paul Petit and Sidney Marie (Lake) Petit as the youngest of eight children. He attended Denby High School and went on to complete an apprenticeship, becoming a master sheet metal journeyman—a profession in which he took great pride. Art contributed his skills during the housing boom of the 1960s and 1970s, helping to build countless homes throughout the region. He later co‑founded Central Door with his brother Pete, taking great satisfaction in supplying high‑quality materials to the building industry.

Art lived in Sterling Heights, Michigan, until retirement, surrounded daily by family and friends. He was an avid camper and traveler, spending many years exploring the country with his family and close camping friends. Over the years, Art owned a wide variety of campers—including a Driftwood, Coachman, and eventually a Winnebago, which he proudly drove across the country. His love for adventure extended to boating and outdoor recreation, owning everything from rowboats, an Imperial open‑bow boat, to a Sunfish sailboat, kayaks, a canoe, and even a windsurfer—despite never learning to swim. He also enjoyed motorcycles, including dirt bikes.

After his traveling years, Art settled into cottage life along the shores of Lake Huron in Caseville, Michigan, before eventually retiring to The Villages, Florida. There, he embraced retirement with enthusiasm—playing golf, pickleball, chair volleyball, and especially enjoying Euchre with a wide circle of friends. In his later years, Art cherished these Euchre nights, filled with friendly banter and laughter, often reflecting on the many blessings of his life.

Above all else, Art’s life was centered around his deep love for his wife, children, grandchildren, and great‑grandchildren. He will be dearly missed and fondly remembered by all who knew and loved him. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.