Joseph W. Petrowski, Jr.'s Obituary
Joseph William Petrowski, Jr., 75, of Baldwinsville passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, January 15, 2026. He was born September 18, 1950 in Syracuse, NY, son of the late Joseph W. Petrowski, Sr. and Helen Petrowski (Winters). Joseph graduated from East Syracuse – Minoa High School in 1968 and proudly served as a member of the United States National Guard.
Joe was a lifelong entrepreneur and well known in the local business and bowling communities. Joe was the manager and mechanic at Imperial Lanes in East Syracuse for many years. He also owned several businesses, including Fabius Bowling Lanes in Fabius, NY, Carvel Ice Cream in East Syracuse; was co-owner of Thunderbird Lanes in Baldwinsville, and later owned Mr. C’s Bar and Grill in Baldwinsville.
Joe retired in 2014 from Turning Stone Casino, where he spent many enjoyable years working as a limousine driver. He took great pride in his work and often shared stories of meeting and driving celebrities and high-profile guests throughout the Northeast. After retirement, he continued working part-time, staying active and connected
Joe had a love for racing and spent many weekends at Oswego Speedway, even trying his hand as a driver for a few years. He was a devoted Syracuse University basketball fan and a loyal New York Yankees supporter. He also enjoyed golfing and playing softball.
Joe’s most significant achievements came on the bowling lanes. A highly respected and accomplished bowler, he was inducted into the Syracuse Bowling Hall of Fame in 2002 as an Outstanding Bowler. A former PBA member, Joe won numerous league and tournament titles, including the prestigious Herald Masters championship in 1990; one of his proudest moments on the lanes.
Joe will be remembered for his competitive spirit, love of sports, dedication to his work, and the many friendships he formed throughout his life.
Joseph is survived by his three sons; Joseph C. (Jennifer Geraets), Mark (Bridget) and Matthew; and four beloved grandchildren: Amanda (Nick) Castrello, Emily, Genevieve and Anastella Petrowski.
Funeral services will be private. The family invites all family and friends to gather in remembrance and celebration of Joe’s life on Sunday, February 1, 2026, from 2:00–6:00 P.M. at the Liverpool Elks Lodge, 3730 Cold Springs Road, Baldwinsville, NY 13027.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Joe’s memory to the CNY SPCA, 5878 E. Molloy Road, Syracuse, NY 13211, or online at https://cnyspca.org/donate.
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