Vincent Francis Petka's Obituary
Vincent Francis Petka, age 57, of Lewes entered into eternal rest on June 28, 2026, at the Delaware Hospice Center in Milford, Delaware. Born in Wilmington, Delaware, he was the youngest son of Edward J. and Patricia M. Petka. He was preceded in death by his father and his grandparents, Constantine and Ann Petka and William and Agnes Kirk.
Vincent is dearly missed by his mother, Patricia, wife Debbi, daughters Devin and Bella, and brothers Edward Jr. and his wife Calla, and James and his partner Kerry. Also cherishing their memories of him are his nephews Eddie (Erin), Kyle (Megan), Jimmy, David and Jack (Kathia), his niece Olivia, and many special aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family and friends.
Vincent was known as the kind of person who put the needs of others ahead of his own. He looked out for both friends and strangers, showing courtesy and respect in everyday interactions. If a line of people followed him to the door, he would hold it open for them all and be the last one to enter. He never tried to be the center of attention, but always knew how to lighten any mood with a joke. Vincent credited his mother and father with teaching him how to treat others as well as how to stand up for himself. As he and his brothers grew up together they shared a mutual respect that remained throughout their adult lives. They were always there for each other with advice or a helping hand.
Vincent first attended St. Elizabeth’s High School in Wilmington before moving to Middletown High School, where he graduated in 1986. While at Middletown he was a talented athlete, playing on the varsity football, baseball and track and field teams. It was also there that he and Debbi met in January 1984 and began their forty-two year adventure together. They became each other’s best friend, true love and partner as they raised their family. They would have soon celebrated their 34th wedding anniversary. Vincent loved being a father. He put his heart and soul into providing his girls with happy childhoods and made sure they grew into capable and confident adults, supporting and encouraging them in all of their endeavors. He also modeled the importance of having a strong work ethic and a great sense of humor.
Vincent enjoyed his career with Verizon where he worked as a service technician until his illness began. His previous employers include Ricoh, Hilyards and Acme. He had a natural ability to repair just about anything, a trait he inherited from his father. Vincent believed that with patience and determination, no task was too difficult.
He had an appreciation for nature and loved tending to his yard as well as making frequent visits with his family to Cape Henlopen State Park. He loved country music and living near the water. He was a life-long Philadelphia Eagles fan and never left the house without wearing a hat that showed it. Woo Hoo! GO BIRDS!
Services will be private. As a way of honoring Vincent’s memory, please consider giving to The Delaware Hospice Center, 100 Patriots Way, Milford, Delaware 19963 or The American Cancer Society Hope Lodge of Philadelphia, 110 W. Laurel Avenue, Cheltenham, Pennsylvania 19012.
Please visit Vincent's Life Memorial at https://www.parsellfuneralhomes.com
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