Douglas PETOVELLO

Douglas Alexander Petovello was born in Natal BC on May 5th, 1954 and passed on June 4th, 2022 at home in Sparwood with his sons by his side after a hard fought battle with cancer.

Doug carved a life for himself through courage, work ethic, and persistence. At the age of 12 he was hand loading 75lb bags of rock dust, 400 bags to a load, for a contract his Dad had with Kaiser Resources which was used to prevent methane gas explosions in all their underground mine locations in Natal and Michel. Doug would eventually operate Doug Petovello Trucking Ltd through Kiki and Sons Transfer, hauling everything from engines to lumber and continuing with the rock dust loads until making a career change in 1982. Doug found structure to his family life in mining with various positions until operating a shovel in Operations for 26 years at Greenhills. Known for his leadership to co-workers, passion to work, and ability to pull pranks and have fun, Doug had a hard time retiring in 2019. Proud of the working history of the Elk Valley, Doug was involved with the Heritage Society to help preserve memories in the Sparwood Museum.

His personal life as a young lad was full of too many good stories to tell. From partying, sports, hunting, and getting away with rebellious acts of violence and mischief, Doug, known to some as ‘Suzy,’ had a wealth of friends and priceless memories. Doug believed growing up in the work hard play hard era was the best generation of Elk Valley living.

He later found his sanctuary at Koocanusa Lake, where he’d raise his boys in the summers and entertain all of their friends. Hunting with Kyle and chasing Kevin’s hockey dreams led to many dirt road and highway miles. And of course, Spokane trips with his golfing buddies was a staple in his life.

A devoted family man, it was no secret Doug’s pride and joy was the bond of love he shared with his sons, Kyle and Kevin. A traditional relationship of love and respect that was passed down from his parents, Kiki and Elia, Doug was adamant his sons continue to look after their Nonno and Nonna when he was gone. Doug’s purpose in life was to lead and he left his mark on many. A larger-than-life persona, Doug will always be remembered.

The Petovello family would like to thank all of their friends for the overwhelming support, and every nurse to ever grace Doug in his journey.

Doug is survived by his parents, Alex and Elia Petovello; his 2 sons: Kyle (Michelle) and Kevin Petovello; his 2 brothers: Melvin (Cheryl) and Kent (Cheryl) Petovello; his 3 grandsons: Mason, Zachary, and Isaiah Petovello; numerous nieces and nephews, cousins, and endless beloved friends. He was predeceased by his sister, Karen Petovello; cousin, Jimmie Bellina; beloved Aunts and Uncles, and a few close friends that felt like family.

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