Floyd P. Perkins of Milford, MI, passed away Sunday, November 23, 2008, at South Lyon Gardens Nursing Home. He was born August 20, 1922, in Detroit, the son of Floyd S. And Ada Van Ostrand Perkins.
He is survived by his wife Janet Balmes Perkins, son Geoff (Lesley) Perkins, daughter Mary Lou Landstrom (Jim Miklos), daughter-in-law JoAnn Balbaugh Perkins, five grandchildren: Kristin Perkins(Bill Magliano), Angie (Greg) Penzel, Eric (Kristen) Perkins, Lesley (Brian) McMillan, and Dale Landstrom (Sharon Klapperich), and seven great grandchildren: Maxwell and Natalie Simon, Madeline Penzel, Ryan and Dylan Perkins, Floyd McMillan, and Cole Landstrom. He is also survived by his sister Lois (Karl) Fraleigh, brothers and sisters-in-law, cousins, and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents and eldest son, Floyd.
After high school graduation in Redford, Floyd began a career in the sheet metal working trade – a skill that he took into the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II, where he served in the Fifteenth Air Force, 450th Bombardment Group (H), in Italy, where his special skills were employed in the repair of damaged B-24s upon their return from numerous combat missions throughout southern Europe.
Prior to entering the military, Floyd and Janet were wed Memorial Day, 1942. They went on to enjoy 66 years of married life.
After Floyd's discharge from the Army, he and Janet raised their three children at Commerce Lake, MI. In 1978 they moved to Kalkaska County, MI, and spent their winters in Black Canyon City, AZ, until this past June when they moved to Milford.
Later in his career Floyd turned to the design of heating, ventilating and air conditioning systems, working in that capacity for nearly twenty years. Toward the end of his career, he became the architect's representative for numerous construction projects throughout Michigan, Ohio, and Virginia
Floyd ended his career in an inspection capacity, working for the U.S. Dept. Of Housing and Urban Development, Grand Rapids office.
During his retirement Floyd reconnected with his fellow servicemen, and became one of the founding members of the 450th Bombardment Group Reunion Association where he served as its treasurer from inception until the present.
He was highly regarded among his fellows, and missed but four reunions in 23 years, often traveling great distances to attend the events. It was one of the top highlights of his year.
Floyd was beloved by all who knew him. He was an avid reader, student of history, and loved to tell stories, not only of the things he read, but of his own adventures.
Floyd will be sorely missed. Memorial contributions should be directed to any charity of choice. A memorial service honoring his life for family and friends will be held at at a later date on May 16, 2009, at 10:00 am, at St. Mary's Catholic Church, 1955 E. Commerce Rd., Milford, MI. The Memorial will continue afterwards at The American Legion, 510 W. Commerce, MIlford.
