The Rochester Americans are deeply saddened by the loss of former Amerks goaltender Jim Pettie, who passed away this past Saturday at the age of 65 following a courageous battle with cancer.
Affectionately known as “Seaweed” due to his long hair that was always visibly protruding from under his mask, Pettie spent parts of three seasons with the Amerks from 1976-79 while also splitting time with the Boston Bruins, who selected him in the ninth round of the 1937 NHL Amateur Draft.
“He was the truest, most loyal friend/teammate you could have,” said Amerks Hall of Fame Steve Langdon, who was fortunate enough to play alongside Pettie for all three seasons in Rochester.
Pettie posted a 41-34-6 record and earned four shutouts in 84 career games with the Amerks. He also compiled a 3.45 goals-against average while also backstopping Rochester to playoff appearances in each of his first two seasons between the pipes. He also went 9-7-2 with a 3.68 goals-against average and one shutout in 21 NHL contests for the Don Cherry-coached Bruins.
He retired following the 1980-81 season, and like so many other former Amerks, made Rochester his permanent home. Pettie remained very active within the Rochester Americans Alumni Association and was a true ambassador for the game and organization.
Pettie is survived by his daughter, Kara, and two granddaughters, Madeline and Lillian. He also leaves behind the love of his life of 30 years, Kathy Olney, and his stepdaughter, Jennifer Olney Smith, both of Rochester, and his longtime friend and former wife, Jan Pettie.
In lieu of flowers please consider donating to the or to the Rochester Americans Alumni Association, 111 Van Voorhis Ave., Rochester, NY 14617. A Celebration of Life will be held for the family separately.
The entire Amerks organization sends its deepest sympathy to his friends and family during this difficult time.