Racine – James “Mick” Perkins, Sr., 53 passed away unexpectedly at home on Tuesday, October 20, 2009. He was born in Racine on January 19, 1956, son of the late Ronald and Barbara (nee: Bundy) Perkins. After high school, Mick enlisted into the U.S. Marine Corps, serving from 1973-1975, and then in the reserve components of the Army and Navy. On October 2, 1976, he and Anna Marie Bure were married at St. Dismis Catholic Church in Waukegan, Illinois.
Mick was very proud of his military service, and was a life member of the Marine Corps League; American Legion Post 310; Viet Nam Veterans of America; the Racine County Veterans Firing Squad; and was very active at the VFW/Legacy Center. For each of the last 38 years he participated in the Racine 4th of July parade on either the Iwo Jima or Spirit of ’76 float. He was passionate about WWII history, and in 2007 traveled to the beaches of Normandy, and many WWII museums. Mick also enjoyed collecting WWII memorabilia. He was very honest and frank in his beliefs, but you always knew where you stood, and his sense of humor will be missed by many. Mick was greatly anticipating the birth of his 3rd grandchild.
He is survived by his wife, Anna; their children, Michelle Ann (Josh) Hudson of Kenosha, and James Michael (Kerry) Perkins, Jr. of Racine; grandchildren, Henry Perkins, and Mae Holiday Perkins; sisters and brothers, Dawn (Joe Mara) Cooper of Milwaukee, Sandra Schumaker of Racine, Scott (Tina) Perkins of Norfolk, Virginia, Isa Sadlon of Milwaukee, and Marie (Nolan) Penson of Sacramento, California; many nieces and nephews, other relatives and friends, including Rick Ferraro of Crown Point, Indiana. He was also preceded in death by his brother-in-law, Willie Schumaker.
Funeral services will be held in the funeral home at 6:00 pm on Friday, October 23, 2009 with Rev. Ron Gramza officiating. Visitation will begin at 4:00 pm. Interment and military honors will be conducted at West Lawn Memorial Park on Monday at 2:00 pm. Memorials to the Disabled American Veterans have been suggested.
John and Marta May says
Mrs. Perkins: We are Josh’s Aunt and Uncle. We want you to know that you are in our prayers today…….We are sure happy to have your sweet daughter in our family. Thinking of you John and Marta May
Maria DeMaio says
Dear Dawn, I am so sorry for the sudden and unexpected loss of your brother, Mick. I too, lost a brother nearly six years ago, and know it is a very hard loss to accept. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you, and feel free to call upon me if I can help in any way. Sincerely, Maria DeMaio
Timothy S. McCormick says
Dawn and family all of the Blue wishes to offer our sympathy to your entire family over the loss of Mick. My prayers are with you Dawn and your family. May you all find peace in knowing that Mick is finally pain free and at home with God.
nancy & ray hart says
Just remember we love you more than gods green earth. I know sometimes things seem like more than you can bear. If there’s anything we can do we are here for you! we love you mom & ray
Michael Ferraro says
Ruth Vilmann says
Ana and family, I am so sorry for your loss. The sad news spread fast through our family, and you have been in our thoughts since. I will remember Mick fondly as I picture him covered in paint, holding so still I had to watch his eyes closely to see a blink, proudly representing our veterans. If I can assist with anything, please feel free to contact me. Fondly, Ruth Vilmann (Kim’s sister)
Thomas & Karen Hudson says
Our deepest sympathy to Michelle, Anna and the family. You are in our thoughts and prayers at this time.