He left a proud legacy of family and friends over his 95 years on this earth. Born December 7th, 1923 in Kansas City, Missouri, and raised in Higginsville, Missouri, he established a strong work ethic as a young boy. He delivered newspapers and worked many jobs growing up to help support his family. He learned to appreciate the value of a dollar and the hard work to survive in a small town during the depression era. He left home by the age of 17, married his high school sweetheart Dorothy Johnson, and was drafted into the Army all within 1 years' time. He served our country valiantly under General George Patton in World War II. He would proudly and fondly recollect his time during service. Whether it was being sent to Texas A&M due to high IQ test scores, riding motorcycles for the military Police in France, being shot through the hand, or accepting surrender from a Nazi German officer - He was always ready and willing to share his stories with anyone within earshot.
When he returned from the war, he and Dorothy settled in Kansas City, sharing 76 years of life and love. He worked as an accountant for TWA airlines, as well as, filing hundreds of personal tax returns each year for friends, family, and clients from his "office" in their home at 72nd and Belleview. He was an active member or the American Legion Dwight Cowles Post and Ararat Shrine for many years.
Of all his accomplishments, family was always his proudest legacy. His daughter, Donna, married Dr. Chuck Eddy and they built a successful chiropractic practice while serving the KC City Council and numerous Clubs and philanthropic groups in the city. His son, Doug, was married to Virginia Sonnenmoser, providing him with 3 grandchildren: Brian Perry, Darren Perry and Karen (Perry) Brooks, as well as, 7 great-grandchildren. Tragically, Doug lost his life in the Line of Duty as a Kansas City, Missouri police officer in 1978. But, "Grandpa" continued to lead as the patriarch of the Perry Family protecting, providing and loving.
Grandpa was full of laughter and love. He was generous to all that he cared for. He was strong and proud, shrewd and stubborn, both strong willed and soft hearted. He had a full life and will be dearly missed. But, his family also sheds tears for joy that he will finally be reunited in heaven with his beloved son, whom he lost way too soon. May he rest in peace, no more wheelchair or back pain. All the chocolate covered cherries he can eat, and an eager audience for any stories he may have to share. We love him and will miss him.
