Charles Perkins

Charles H. "Perk" Perkins, 79, of Templeton, died Thursday, August 22, in Heywood Hospital after a short illness.

Perk, as he was fondly known, was born June 14, 1934, in St. Johnsbury, Vermont, son of the late Charles P. and Elsa (Perham) Perkins and graduated from Petersham High School in 1952. He proudly served in the United States Army and worked as a service manager for Chrysler for many years. He also served as Regional President for Service Managers of Chrysler Association. Perk was also a firefighter in Templeton and was one of the original members of the "Rescue 8" rescue squad, the original rescue and ambulance service in Templeton. Perk also served on the ski patrol for Mt. Watatic, Temple Mountain, Nashoba Valley, and Pat's Peak. At the time of his retirement, Perk drove a limousine for Butler Limousine.

Perk was an avid beekeeper and was President of the Worcester County Beekeepers Association, and served on all board positions. He was a Webelos leader and in charge of the Arrow of Life program. He was an avid golfer, and enjoyed woodworking. He was a member of the First Baptist Church in Gardner, a lifetime member of the Athol/Orange Elks Lodge #1837 and was also an Advisory Board member for the Town of Templeton.

He will be greatly missed by his dog, Snoopy.

He leaves his wife of 57 years, Mary (Leland) Perkins; one son, Charlie R. Perkins and his wife, Sharon; three step grandchildren, Samuel Dickens of Stoughton, and Brian and Rachel Dickens of Winchendon; two brothers, Clyde Perkins and his wife, Helen of Warwick, and Robert Perkins and his wife, Monika of Petersham; one sister-in-law, Irene Perkins, and many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his brother, David Perkins.

Calling hours will be held Thursday, August 29, from 11:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M. at the First Baptist Church, 14 High Street, Gardner. A Memorial Service will follow at 1:00 P.M. Burial will follow in Pine Grove Cemetery in Templeton.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the First Baptist Church, 14 High St., Gardner, MA 01440.

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