Former ambassador to the U.N. in Geneva Joseph Petrone, 93, died Thursday at his home in Naples, Florida. Petrone and his wife, Augusta Henderson, also lived in Dublin.
The ambassador under former President Reagan had a distinguished military career, prior to moving in 1989 to the historic Knollwood Farm in Dublin – a summer retreat President William Howard Taft had visited.
Andy Peterson, of Peterborough, called Petrone “one of the great gentlemen in New Hampshire politics,” in an interview Monday, adding that he and his wife were great supporters of the Republican Party.
“They always did it with a positive spirit. … Kind of happy warriors in their support,” Peterson said. “They really do represent the best of what you think of New Hampshire Republicans.”
Born in Iowa in 1922, Petrone graduated from West Point in 1944 and served as lieutenant in Gen. Patton’s 3rd Army in the Battle of the Bulge. He continued in the U.S. Army, serving as White House military aide under President Eisenhower and later as assistant military attaché to France. He retired from the army in 1970 and was active in local and national politics from his home base in Iowa, before his post as ambassador in Switzerland.
“Ambassador Petrone had a great love of country and his patriotism was inspiring,” Sen. Kelly Ayotte said in a statement about his death. “From his impressive military career, to his service as a diplomat, to his dedicated efforts to engage and encourage young people to participate in politics, Ambassador Petrone embodied the ideals of civic engagement and public service. His loss will be felt throughout our state, and he will be deeply missed.”
While living in Dublin, Petrone hosted Republican Party fundraisers and events, including one headlined by Ted Cruz in the summer 2013.
Peterson remembers attending a Raylynmor Opera performance at Petrone and Henderson’s Dublin estate, in a large room with an ornate baroque feel.
“It was one of those moments you just felt transported,” Peterson said, noting the couple’s support for the arts.
The family has announced services and burial will be private, requesting any memorials be sent to whichever candidate can best lead the country.