Robert Petro

Robert Lee Petro, born November 9, 1945, passed away at home on May 6, 2026, a man of steady grit and high-octane passion, has taken his final ride. Born in McKeesport,Pennsylvania to the late Thomas and Jean Thrasher Petro. He was an alumnus of the University of Pittsburgh, Bob was a unique blend of “high-tech” and “high octane”

A proud Vietnam Veteran, he served with honor aboard the USS Fred T. Berry (DD-858).He carried that Navy discipline into a lifelong career defined by precision and entrepreneurship. Formally educated as a computer systems analyst  he possessed a sharp mind for logic that served him well in the world of wheels.

For decades, Bob was a fixture of the St. Petersburg automotive landscape as the owner of Bobb’s Auto Sales. As a successful Independent Automobile Dealer, his life was surrounded by American steel. He curated an impressive classic car collection, though none held a candle to his pride and joy: a "black 1969 Z28 Camero". He was a man who understood that a car was more than just transportation—it was craftsmanship. This passion was matched only by his love for the rumble of a Harley-Davidson.

His influence on the Gulf Coast extended to the shoreline, where for 25 years he owned and operated Shadrack’s on St. Pete Beach. Under his watch, Shadrack’s became a legendary landmark—a premier biker bar where the salt air met the roar of engines.

After 45 years on the Florida West Coast, he returned to his roots, moving to North Carolina for retirement. Through every chapter, he was defined by his loyalty. He spent 54 years alongside the true love of his life, Jennie, and his faithful Dobermans, Willie, Amos, Andy, Jake, Elwood, Red and Shadow.

He leaves behind a legacy of hard work, a legendary bar, and a life lived exactly on his own terms.

In addition to his wife he is survived by his brothers, Harry T. Petro (Darlene) and Thomas J. Petro Jr. (Linda). Sister-in-law, Mary Shankle Miller (Sugarman), brothers-in-law, Dan Shankle (Ann) and Bruce Shankle (Carla) and many nieces and nephews as a “one of a kind Uncle Bob”

He was preceded in death by a brother, Richard E. Petro.

Graveside services will be held at 11:00 AM Saturday, May 9, 2026 at Concord United Methodist Church Cemetery. Rev. Mary Hatley will officiate. The family will receive friends following the service in the church fellowship hall. Mr. Petro will lie in state Friday afternoon, May 8, 2026 from 2:00 until 5:00 where friends are welcome to pay their respects.

Memorials may be made to Concord United Methodist Church Cemetery Fund, c% Carla Shankle, 3665 Plank Road, Wadesboro, NC  28170

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