Delma M. Petrullo

PETRULLO-Delma M. Petrullo, 60, died peacefully in Albuquerque on June 3, 2009. Delma was born September 24, 1948 in New York City. She was the daughter of Henry and Lillian (Burger) Karl. Delma showed a passion for art from her earliest years. Throughout her life, Delma expressed her internal beauty, externally, by her many tangible pieces of art in several media such as paintings, sculptures, and molded paper works. In this way, she continues to live on in the hearts of those who possess some of her works. Her love of art was formally established after her graduation from the Fashion Institute of Technology in Manhattan where she manually designed fabrics before the advent of computer aided design. She then taught art and art history at Briarcliffe College in Long Island and worked with the National Center for Disability Services at the Henry Viscardi School also in Long Island. Delma's interest in art continued when she and her husband moved to New Mexico in 1997. One of her greatest achievements was founding the Rio Rancho Art Association. As a Rio Rancho city councilor, she kept a constant eye on ways to improve the quality of life and the aesthetic appeal of the city. She was dedicated to her role as a city councilor for Rio Rancho and was most recently appointed as the deputy mayor. Delma is survived by her loving husband of 32 years, Rocco Robert Petrullo; her brother Herman Karl and wife Suzy of Lincoln, MA, sister, Cheryll Karl of New York, NY, niece Chantelle Karl of Manhattan, NY; sister and brother-in-law, Antoinette and Ed Bailey of Ocala, FL and a host of friends, former students and constituents. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Rio Rancho Community Foundation; c/o 4001 Southern Blvd SE, Rio Rancho, NM 87124. Arrangements are entrusted to Daniels Family Funeral Services 4310 Sara Road SE Rio Rancho, NM 87124 (505) 892-9920