Donald L. Perkins, 92, Woodstock, died Tuesday, Feb. 6, 2018, at the Perkins Farm, surrounded by his loving family; the same home where he was born April 19, 1925, to Gladys and Lester Perkins.
He married Joyce Tornow Sept. 2, 1950, and they enjoyed 63 wonderful years together, until her death in 2013.
Don loved his God, his family and his country. He was a World War II veteran, having served in the 9th Division of the U.S. Army in the European Theater. He earned two Purple Hearts, along with other honors for his service. He was the Seneca Township Highway Commissioner for 40 years. He was very involved in his church and the McHenry County Historical Society. He held various leadership roles and was always willing to volunteer for numerous tasks and projects. He was especially devoted to and proud of the construction of St. John’s Lutheran Church, Union. He had a wonderful sense of humor, which he didn’t hesitate to share, especially at the Seneca Township Liars Club.
His children feel blessed to call him their dad. He so loved and was loved by his grandchildren, who were such lights in his life and he in theirs; and his great-grandchildren brought him such joy.
Survivors include four children, Deb (John) Silker, Woodstock, Gail Perkins, Woodstock, Lori (Phil) Hempen, Crystal Lake, and Don Perkins II, Algonquin; six grandchildren, Doran (Cori) Silker, Nikki (Drew) Kunde, Kate Silker, Shelly (Ryan) Burgett, Genna (Steven) Mitchell and Sammi Jo Hempen; and five great-grandchildren, Evan, Maddison and Landen Silker, and Dylan and Elliott Kunde.
He was preceded in death by his wife; his parents; and a sister, Marguerite Lange.
Visitation was Feb. 9 at St. John’s Lutheran Church, Union. Visitation continued Feb. 10, followed by the funeral at the church.
Interment was at Union Cemetery.
Memorial donations can be made to St. John’s Lutheran Church, Union; JourneyCare Woodstock; and/or the McHenry County Historical Society.
Arrangements were made by Fredrick Funeral Home, Hampshire.