James “Jim” Scott Pettir Oct. 26, 1961 - June 30, 2017 SOUTH BEND - It is with heavy hearts we announce James (Jim) Scott Pettit, 55, died suddenly at his home in Missoula, Montana, on Friday evening, June 30, 2017. Jim was born on October 26, 1961, to James and Christine Pettit in South Bend, Indiana. After graduating from LaSalle High School in South Bend, Jim enlisted in the U.S. Navy. During his time as an active duty officer, he flew anti-submarine warfare missions from the USS Kitty Hawk. He received an honorable discharge from the Navy and went on to study Political Science at the University of California Los Angeles. He met his wife of nearly 27 years, Loreen (Lori), while living across the hall from her at UCLA. After a successful career as a medical sales representative, Jim dedicated his time to raising his two children, Arthur and Audrey. Jim was a loving husband and father who consistently put his family's needs and aspirations above his own. He was outgoing, kind to waitstaff, and always willing to help. He loved telling stories and talking politics, working outside and watching sports, and most of all spending time with his family in the Last Best Place. His quirky sense of humor, impeccable style, and sage advice will be dearly missed. Jim is survived by his wife Loreen, son Arthur, daughter Audrey, mother Christine, sister Michelle, brother Shawn (and his wife Cathy), nephew Christopher Zellers (and his wife Stephanie), and nieces Caleigh Zellers, Maddie Pettit, and Gracie Pettit. He will also be missed by his beloved dog, Bruin, and cats, Duma and Clarabel. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 AM Monday, July 10, 2017, at St. Francis Xavier Church. Father Joseph Carver will officiate. Jim will be interred at the Western Montana Veterans Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the James Scott Pettit Family Scholarship at Loyola Sacred Heart High School. Checks may be made out to the Loyola Sacred Heart High School Foundation at 300 Edith Street Missoula, Montana 59801. Please write “James Scott Pettit Family Scholarship” in the subject line.
