Fred Petroske

[steve lapp]

Hi folks:

Following up on Tom's, Petroski visit, I spent about 4 hours with Fred about 7 years ago when I was first locking for a 330. I was thinking of buying a basket case restoration (moved on from that idea).

In any event I saw 250 GTE #3229 and some 4 headlight 330's that I did not get serial numbers from. There was one 330 that was quite curious though, it had a wicker montage on the side. Here is a bad photo - look in the lower left for the wicker, it covered the entire side of the car - anyone know the history?

I have also put in a picture of the 250 GTE. I might have posted these a few years ago, apologies to those who saw them already.

I must go visit Fred again, need a few pieces!

Cheers

[tyang]

Hi Steve,

Yep, the wicker car was still there. It was kind of dark where the car sat so I didn't try to take a picture. He's had that that car for a long time. Unfortunately, it's missing its engine, but what a cool car to bring back to life!

If you ever plan to go, let me know. It could be a tomyang.net field trip. Fred'll have to check our pockets before we leave!

Tom

[sam231]

Tom & Steve,

Thanks for the update on Fred. I dealt with him for parts on both my cars and found him to be very nice and helpful. Tom, wicker project car? Great idea! Even though it would not have matching engine, it would be a signature restoration, certainly one-of-a-kind. Maybe the engine is hiding at Tom S.?

Ciao.
Sam

[David Booth]

Hate to be anal, but isn't it Petroske, with an "e"? Interesting guy - I've dealt with him a few times, so seeing hims operation via this thread has been a welcome peek behind the curtain.

[sam231]

Hate to be anal, but isn't it Petroske, with an "e"? Interesting guy - I've dealt with him a few times, so seeing hims operation via this thread has been a welcome peek behind the curtain.

Not anal - CORRECT! Good catch, wouldn't want to offend the man.

[tyang]

Hate to be anal, but isn't it Petroske, with an "e"? Interesting guy - I've dealt with him a few times, so seeing hims operation via this thread has been a welcome peek behind the curtain.

You are right! I made the appropriate changes!

Tom

[steve lapp]

Hi Folks:

Maybe I missed the post, but when I stopped by Fred Petroske's place in Chaumont New York this past week, I learned he had died last June at age 62 from a brain tumour that had left him ill for two years. Fred was very helpful when I was looking for a car in 2004/5 and I enjoyed his eclectic interests and vast collection and enthusiasm for all things vintage V12. Fred's widow Paula, his long term employee Bob, and Bob's son are running the business and several E-types were being assembled when we visited.

Don't visit if you can't stand to see cut up bits of 330's and 250's! I spotted four 330 roofs, and one 330 cut into approximately 2 foot long slices, but they do still have many parts and Bob knows where everything is.

My apologies if everyone else knew the sad news about Fred already.

steve

[T308]

I'm sorry to hear that news. Thanks for the update.

[sam231]

That is very sad. He was a very nice man and from my perspective wonderful to deal with. Fred, rest in peace.

[treue]

I bought several parts for my 308 from Fred. He was always happy to answer questions and was fair in his pricing and dealings with me.

Then I saw 9129 on his website. He couldn't decide whether to sell it whole or part it out. The rest is history as 9129 is now mine, is driving and is 98% restored.

In restoring 9129, I had many occasions to work with Fred's widow Paula. Paula has taken up where Fred left off. She is happy to send pictures and answer any questions. Pricing and dealings are still fair. She does a very good job in continuing Fred's legacy.

Thanks, Fred and Paula.

Tom