Neal Curtis Perkins

Neal Perkins Born Aug. 2, 1943 - June 2, 2011 Neal Perkins passed away on June 2, 2011 at his home in Bakersfield, California at the age of 67. Neal passed away with his loving wife, Elaine and family at his side. He was born to Leroy and Darl Mae Perkins in Scotts Bluff, Nebraska. He came to California at the age of 7 where he grew up and went to school in Oroville. After high school he hitchhiked to Anchorage, Alaska where he worked in a fishing cannery. He then joined the Navy in 1964 where he started out as a barber and then worked as cobbler. He was stationed on the USS Pine Island and served in Vietnam. After his military service, he spent a couple of years in Oregon felling trees. Neal then followed his family to Bakersfield, California and found work at The Pacific Southern Foundry. After working at The Foundry, as he called it, he then found work at Hopper Inc. in the hoist parts department. His final career was with the State Department of Water Resources where he spent over 20 years as a Civil Maintenance Journeyworker. In 1990 he received the Citation and Medal of Valor from the State of California for saving a pilot from a burning airplane off of 7th Standard Rd. on his way to work. After retiring from the State Neal became involved with the VFW Post 6601 where served as a Post Commander for 2 years. He was also an active member of the Veterans Employment Committee and the American Legion Post 26. Neal was an avid cyclist, enjoyed traveling and attended yearly Pine Island Association reunions. He was known by all his neighbors as someone they could count on if there was ever anything they needed, and he will always be remembered fondly for his selflessness and willingness to help anyone in any way. Neal is survived by his loving wife Elaine, daughter I'Esha Perkins Benham (David), granddaughter Ariana, sisters Norma Anderson and Patty Morrison, and brother David Perkins. He also survived by 16 loving nieces and nephews. He is greatly missed by loved ones including his 4 legged furry buddies Gabby and Tigger. Rosary will be held Thursday, June 9th, at Saint Francis Church 7:00pm and Mass will be held on Friday, June 10th, at 10:00am with graveside held at Hillcrest Cemetery.

Arrangements under the direction of Hillcrest Memorial Park and Mortuary, Bakersfield, CA.