ARKANSAS, USA — Former Arkansas Speaker of the House Benny Petrus died at the age of 67 on Friday.
Born in 1956, Petrus spent his life in Stuttgart where he helped run the family automobile business and worked as a farmer.
Petrus also served as an Arkansas representative for District 14 from 2003 to 2009. During that time, he served as the speaker in his final term between 2007 and 2009.
As a member of the House, he served as a vice chair for the Agriculture, Forestry, and Economic Development Committee and for the Public Transportation Committee.
His work in the legislature mirrored what he did in the private sector as he focused on agriculture, business, and energy.
Before his death, Petrus was the president and CEO of Adams Fertilizer Equipment Company in DeWitt.
He also served as a board member of Summit Utilities, a natural gas energy provider.
"He brought an incredible sense of humor, curiosity, kindness, and spirit to the Summit Utilities board and to everyone who had the privilege of working alongside him," Summit's President and CEO Kurt Adams. "Benny was a cherished friend whose enthusiasm made every interaction memorable and impactful. I am personally grateful for the years of camaraderie and friendship built in Stuttgart duck holes, sharing meals with his family at Red Hill, and working together in the Summit boardroom."
Petrus is survived by his wife, Tammy, and two sons, Justin and Jonathan.
Angus King, Summit's chief strategy officer, president of Peaks Renewables, and longtime friend of the Petrus family said: "Benny adored Tammy and was incredibly proud of Justin and Jonathan. It's a comfort that his spirit will live on in his family."
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