Julia G. Petro Brinkerhuff (nee Gutowski), age 100, of Racine, Wisconsin, passed away on April 10th, 2026.
Born in Dowell, Illinois, in 1925, she was the daughter of the late Felix and Victoria(nee Pokoj) Gutowski. In addition to her parents, Julia was predeceased by her first husband, Alex P. Petro, her second husband, George Brinkerhuff, and her brother, Felix (Jane).
Julia was the loving mother of Victoria Neely (William), A. Lance Petro (Kathy), and Christopher Petro; the caring grandmother of David J. Neely (Melisa), Shane Mottl and Collette Mottl, and step-grandmother of Thomas Neely, Chris Morris, and Michelle Morris. She was also the adoring great-grandmother of Henry A. Neely.
During World War II, Julia worked in Washington, D.C. for the FBI, dealing with sensitive war-related material. She was later employed by Walker Manufacturing in Racine as an Office Manager.
Julia spoke fluent Polish. She had a love of travel, both nationally and internationally. Throughout her life, she was active in local projects and community affairs. Her favorite pastimes were gardening, playing Scrabble, and she was a prolific reader. In addition, she was an accomplished seamstress.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the charity of your choice in Julia‘s name.
Casey Family Options Funerals & Cremations
3016 75th Street, Kenosha, WI 53142
262-653-0667
