Michael Petrou

HAVERHILL - Michael Petrou, lifelong resident of Haverhill, MA, passed peacefully following a brief illness, on Saturday, October 12, 2024 at the age of 70.

Michael was born on May 24, 1954 to William and Toula Petrou. He called Haverhill home for the majority of his life; attending Haverhill Public Schools, a parishioner of Holy Apostles Saints Peter and Paul Greek Orthodox Church, and living and working in and around Haverhill’s downtown where he made cherished memories with his family and friends.

As a staple in the Haverhill restaurant community, Michael worked alongside his parents, his son and twin brother in their family establishments: The Tap, Toula’s, Bradford Tavern, and most recently Krueger’s and Olivia’s. His experience and knowledge in the restaurant business made him an invaluable asset everywhere he worked. He was often seen behind the line, expertly timing the kitchen to execute busy weekend nights with ease and fine-tuning signature recipes to perfection, before turning around to make his way out to the bar to greet patrons and friends, often with a joke and always raising a glass. He would also spend time at his cousins’ neighboring restaurant Butch’s Uptown, helping out in the kitchen mostly just to spend time with his family there. These restaurants were his home and happy place and his memory will live on there. 

Michael was known for his quick wit and big personality; however, it was his loyalty and generosity that made him so special. He often dropped food off for friends, offered rides to staff at the end of a long shift, and would slip tips to bus boys when dining out. Michael never wanted anyone to notice these small acts of kindness, it was simply who he was. Michael’s selflessness was never more apparent than in the later years of his mother Toula’s life, when he lived with her providing care, companionship, support, laughter and love to her until her last day. 

Living large was always Michael’s style! However in recent years, his greatest enjoyment came from dinners with his children at his favorite North End restaurant, Pagliuca’s, sharing a weekly meal with dear friends, playing 45’s, and always catching Tower of Power whenever they came to town. Michael took pride in himself, and operated with the highest standard of quality. Many will remember that especially in his younger years he was always impeccably dressed; and as of his passing, his signature black Cadillac is as shiny as he day he bought it - perhaps hinting at the answer to the eternal question, “What is hip?”

Michael’s humility was particularly evident in the past few years as he faced significant health challenges. Never one to complain, he quietly endured many procedures and treatments with grace, not wanting to burden his family and friends with his ailments. He quickly became a favorite among his nurses, as many noted it was, “because he has a kind heart.” Michael’s pride and joy were his children. He cherished sharing his love of golf with his son, Jason, and relished the time spent working alongside him at the restaurant. With his daughter, Colleen, every moment was a treasure, but his proudest moments were being well enough to walk her down the aisle and dancing with her at her wedding.  

Michael will be dearly missed by his son Jason Petrou of Haverhill; daughter Colleen Petrou Pizzotti and her husband Mark, of Saugus; his twin brother Stephen Petrou and his wife Susan, of Amesbury; his former wife and dear friend Jane Barry, of Atkinson. Michael cherished the close friendships of his cousin Butch Petrou and his wife Paula, along with their children Beth, Christopher and Samantha and their respective families. Michael is predeceased by his parents William and Toula Petrou, and cousin Peter Petrou.

Michael's family would like to thank the staff for the care he was given from Penacook Place and Element Care.

Visitation will be Wednesday, October 16, in the Driscoll Funeral Home, 309 S. Main Street, Haverhill from 4:00 to 7:00 PM. Services held on Thursday in Holy Apostles Sts. Peter and Paul Greek Orthodox Church, 154 Winter Street, Haverhill at 11:00 AM. Please meet directly at the church. Interment in Linwood Cemetery. For guestbook, please visit www.driscollcares.com

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