Kristy ‘Kris’ Jo Petruzelli of Sherman, Texas, passed away on January 6, 2023, at the age of 66. She was born December 15, 1956, to William and Darlene (Wagner) Wilkinson in Marengo, Iowa. Kris married Joe Petruzelli on May 2, 1987, in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
Kris had an amazing spirit despite being diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis at the age of 21. Those who knew her would describe her as one of the strongest individuals they had known. Her doctor even described her as the ‘bionic woman.’ The positive attitude and kindness she carried was the example of her Lord and savior, Jesus Christ. During her final moments here on earth, she was accompanied by her dearest and longtime friends: Meg, Kim, Charlotte, Tammy, Rhonda, Connie, David, Mark, and Ed. After her last breath, she stopped by the rainbow bridge to pick up her dogs, Molly, Bida and Bonnie.
Kris is survived by her husband, Joe Petruzelli; Godson, Tyler Wilkinson; Brother, Jeff Wilkinson; Two brother-in-laws, Michael Skarja and Anthony Skarja; Two sister-in-laws, Candice Wilkinson and Michelle Skarja; and numerous nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Bill and Darlene; brother, Bill Wilkinson Jr.; and Mother and Father-in-law, Yvonne and Otto Skarja.
The family would like to give a special thanks to the staff at Texoma Medical Center, to Jeff, Cole, and A.L. for being by Joe’s side at Texoma Medical Center, Doctor Grant Craig in Sherman, Baylor Scott and White Hospital in Plano, and her caregivers, Leora, Kim and Libby.
A celebration of life will be held in the spring.
The family suggests memorial donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital or a local food pantry of your choice.
A poem written by her brother-in-law, Michael Skarja:
HEAVENS GATES
Tonight oh Lord open those Heaven Gates for an Angel comes to you. She looks for peace and rest beyond the sky so blue.
She comes to join her Family that awaits her journeys end. Open those Heaven Gates oh Lord and welcome in my friend.
Her spirit was that of a young woman but her pain it ran so deep. She pushed on though she suffered till her body became to weak.
I pray to you oh Lord tonight please hear me as I say. Lord open up Heavens Gates for my sister on this day.
