David Paul Petrolati, age 72, passed away peacefully in his childhood home in Ludlow on March 31, 2026 surrounded by his loving family and caretakers. Born in Springfield to Redicento “Jack” and Yolanda (Mei) Petrolati, he was a lifelong Ludlow resident and 1972 graduate of Ludlow High School where he was known as “Petch”. Upon graduation, he attended STCC, becoming an auto mechanic like his father, and worked for Hamilton Standard and the Hampden County Sheriff’s Department before retiring. David went on to marry his high school sweetheart and love of his life, Karen Mary Bassette, and together they had 2 sons Marc Anthony Petrolati (Stephanie Burek) and Frank Raymond Petrolati (Kathleen O’Brien) who gave them their beloved grandchildren Michael, Frank Jr. Antonio, and Alora Grace, as well as Jordan Gray and Alexis Cassesse. In their early years, David and Karen spent a few years on Marco Island before returning to Ludlow to raise their sons. David was an avid hunter and fisherman, as well as a longtime member of the Granby Bow & Hunt Club and especially cherished his time spent with his sons doing archery. Karen predeceased him in 2024 and besides his children and grandchildren, David leaves his sister Adele Vautrain and husband John; as well as several nieces, nephews, additional relatives, and friends.
The family has asked that you join them for a family hosted Celebration of his Life on Saturday April 11th. A funeral mass will be celebrated at 11:00am in St. Elizabeth Parish followed by a reception at Mills Tavern & Grille in Ludlow.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Davis's memory to Lustgarten Pancreatic Cancer Research or Charity of One’s Choice. In David’s own words, he would want us all to “Carry On’”
To send flowers or plant a tree in memory of David Paul Petrolati, visit the Tribute Store.
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