Renate Petroff

Renate Petroff passed away peacefully at her home in Phoenix, AZ on May 20, 2025, surrounded by friends and family. Born on July 14, 1939, in Germany, Renate moved to the United States at the age of 25, despite barely speaking any English. 

She worked various jobs in the hospitality industry, including at Smugglers Inn and Mountain Shadows Resort. Renate eventually married Don Petroff, who had two young daughters at the time. In 1986, she opened her own business, Edelweiss German Deli, where her passion for food shone through, especially in her famous German potato salad and kraut. Renate’s feisty German spirit was evident when she argued with a health inspector over a 99/100 score, because they couldn’t justify their 1-point deduction.

 Renate is proceeded in death by her husband Don and is survived by her daughters Tanya (Bob) and Laura (Jim), seven grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, her brother Peter and other family in Germany, her cousin Linda, her dear friends Sandy and Lynn, and her beloved dogs Heidi and Euro. 

Renate will always be remembered as the ‘Kleine General,’ and her memory will live on forever in our hearts. There will be no services. Please consider donating to Hospice of the West (hospicewestaz.com) or any animal rescue in her memory.