Christopher Edward Perkins

October 3, 1959 – March 3, 2026

Christopher Edward Perkins, a man of immense charisma, profound kindness, and an unwavering devotion to his family, passed away at the age of 66. Chris lived a life defined by his heart, always putting his wife and children first and dedicating his career to the well-being of others. He was a pillar of strength, a generous friend to strangers, and a man who believed deeply in the power of intention and the Holy Spirit that connects us all.

Raised in Indianapolis as the eighth of ten children, Chris attended Bishop Chatard and North Central High Schools. In 1983, he joined the U.S. Navy, serving as a Hospital Corpsman stationed in Rota, Spain. He took great pride in serving his country and raved about his experiences in Spain for decades to come.

Upon his return, he attended Indiana University Bloomington (1987–1991), where he was a member of the Chi Phi Fraternity and rode in the Little 500 bike race. It was during these years, in 1990, that he met the love of his life, Marla. They were married in 1992, beginning a 33-year journey of shared devotion. Chris was a devoted husband and father who led his household with love, humor, and a constant, optimistic spirit.

Professionally, Chris was a tireless advocate for working families. He was incredibly passionate about his work with Marathon Health: helping unions across the United States gain access to primary healthcare. He saw his union clients and their members not just as colleagues, but as brothers and sisters. He lived by the simple but profound mantra to always "Do the right thing," viewing his career as a reflection of his desire to help others live healthier, more dignified lives.

An avid Catholic and longtime parishioner at Holy Spirit at Geist, Chris was known for his social nature and his ability to make everyone laugh. Whenever asked how he was doing, his trademark response was that he was "Living the dream." He possessed a photographic memory for sports and history facts, often surprising friends and family with his wealth of knowledge.

Chris’s true joy was found on the sidelines. His booming voice and encouraging spirit were staples at his children’s games. He coached every one of his kids' teams, from CYO youth football at Holy Spirit to baseball at OYO Oaklandon, teaching his children the values of teamwork, grit, and sportsmanship.

When he wasn’t coaching, Chris was likely admiring a classic engine. A true car aficionado, he loved IndyCar racing, building model car kits, and attending car shows. One of his proudest personal achievements was finally owning his dream Porsche, a lifelong goal realized. He remained a die-hard fan of Notre Dame Football, IU sports, and Chicago Cubs Baseball.

Chris was preceded in death by his parents, Vernon and Margaret Perkins; his sisters, Ann Payne and Sheila Poole; and his brothers, Michael and Eugene Perkins.

His legacy of love lives on through his beloved wife, Marla; and his five children: Christopher Perkins Jr., Brandon Perkins, Tashan Finley (wife Jessica), Connor Perkins (wife Rachel), and Kierstin Perkins. He was the proud grandfather of Tashan Finley Jr. He is also survived by his siblings: Brenda (Frank) Perez, Ben (Andrea) Perkins, Patrick (Margaret) Perkins, Nicholas (Michelle) Perkins, and Matthew (Wendy) Perkins. Thousands of lives touched by Chris can attest: he loved all, he made the world brighter, and he was, quite simply, a great man.

Service Information

Wake

Friday, March 13, 2026 | 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM

Feeney-Hornak Keystone Mortuary

2126 E 71st St, Indianapolis, IN 46220

Funeral Mass

Saturday, March 14, 2026

Holy Spirit Parish at Geist

10350 Glaser Way, Fishers, IN 46037

Visitation at church begins at 10:00 AM | Funeral Mass begins at 12:00 PM

Memorial Contributions

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made in Chris' honor to the following local charities that reflect his commitment to wellness and community:

• NeuroHope: Donate https://neurohopewellness.networkforgood.com/projects/247255-support-neurohope-today

• Society of St. Vincent de Paul Noble Cause: Donate https://svdpnoblecause.com/