John James "JP" Petrik, age 84, of North Platte, NE, died on October 22, 2026.
He was born on March 7, 1942, in Martin, South Dakota, to Edward and Aileen (Nelson) Petrik, and grew up on the family farm near Patricia, South Dakota, in a musical family where gatherings often included playing and singing. JP worked on the family farm as a mechanic, in seed and feed sales, and in car sales in South Dakota, Arizona, and Nebraska. He loved camping, fishing, country music, playing guitar by ear, and a good argument, but he loved his dogs most of all. He proudly celebrated 47 years of sobriety one month before his passing and sponsored numerous people over the years.
He is survived by daughters Wendi (Jeanne Gacke) Van Beek and Lori (Jeremy) Colbeck; grandchildren Sadie and Logan; honorary daughter, Alicia Pinault and family; numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews; and his dog Annie, now retired in Arizona.
He was preceded in death by his parents; sister Delores and her husband, Glenn Stethem; infant daughter, Cindy; nephews Roger and rocky Stethem; and his dogs, Duke, E.T., and Bridget.
A memorial service will be held in early Summer 2027 in Martin, South Dakota.
Memorials may be made to the North Platte Animal Shelter.
Odean Colonial Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be shared at odeanchapel.com.