Petra Marie Lugo

Petra Marie Lugo, affectionately known to many as “Louise,” was born Petra Rea on March 4, 1938, in Bakersfield, California, to Louis Rea and Adela Nevarez. Her siblings included Connie, Betty, Alfonso, Lucy, and Julio.

Petra was the loving mother of four children with Pasqual Ortiz: Annette Avila, Debbie Fitzgerald, Anthony Ortiz, and Steven Ortiz. Her greatest joy was her family, which grew to include 9 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren, and 12 great-great-grandchildren. She also shared a deep and devoted love with her husband, Adelino Lugo.

Petra had a vibrant spirit that touched everyone she met. She was direct, quick-witted, funny, and full of wisdom and advice—including her tried-and-true beauty and skincare routines. She loved to sing, dance, and dress fashionably, and anyone who knew her knew about her unforgettable love for cows.

Her faith was at the center of her life. Petra believed deeply in the power of prayer and made it a priority to pray for her family and those she loved. She found comfort in knowing that one day she would enter Heaven and be reunited with her loved ones, especially her beloved husband, Adelino.

Petra’s heart also belonged to Chip and Chiquita, her dogs who were far more than pets—they were her babies and constant companions, always by her side and on her mind.

Petra leaves behind a beautiful legacy of faith, family, laughter, wisdom, and love that will live on for generations and in the hearts of everyone whose life she touched.

Thank you for the love, the laughter, the prayers, the wisdom, and all the beautiful memories. We will cherish them, and you, forever.