Nashville – Michael Petruna
Born August 25, 1973. Passed January 12, 2026.
Michael Petruna passed from this world, leaving behind a constellation of friends, family, and collaborators whose lives are forever changed by his presence.
Mike was a builder of systems, sounds, and friendships. A deeply thoughtful soul, he moved through life with intelligence, humor, curiosity, and a quiet loyalty that never sought recognition. To know Mike was to know someone who listened closely, cared deeply, and showed up fully for the people and things he loved.
Mike was the beloved son of Elizabeth, Bette Louella O’Keefe, born October 1, 1935, and died May 27, 1991, whose memory and influence remained a steady undercurrent throughout his life. Her love shaped the way Mike showed up for others with patience, compassion, and depth.
Professionally, Mike was an Application Developer at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, serving within the Department of Finance and Development. His work reflected who he was: precise, dependable, and quietly innovative. He brought integrity and care to everything he touched, whether building systems or solving problems behind the scenes.
Creatively, Mike was also an electronic music composer for Labile Records, where he explored sound as a language of emotion, atmosphere, and connection.
Mike believed deeply in chosen family.
He is survived by his wife, Shannon Czerwinski, his partner in life and love.
He leaves behind lifelong friends who shaped his journey in sequence and significance. Marcus Dukes, Terry Douglas, Keith Wood, and Derrick Stembridge.
He was also an honorary member of TRTC, The Real Tennessee Crew, a title given with love and laughter by Cory Wurst, Nacho Brian Wortman, Brenton Rogers, Nicole Pisapia, Britta Roberts, and Jason and Elizabeth Cross. Though honorary by name, Mike was family in every way that mattered.
Mike was deeply devoted to his dogs, Minnie Mouse, Nipsey, also known as Jeannie, and Dottie, who were not just pets but steady companions in his everyday life.
Mike will be remembered as someone who was always there. He showed up for people without being asked, helped without expecting recognition, and gave his time, care, and attention freely. He was one of the most humble people you could ever meet, steady, generous, and genuine in ways that truly mattered.
Knowing Mike was an honor. Having him in your life meant you were never alone, never unseen, and never without someone quietly in your corner.
Though his journey here has ended, the good he put into the world continues forward through the many lives he touched. He will be deeply missed.
No formal services are scheduled at this time. A celebration of Michael’s life will be held at a later date.
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