WLKM Radio 95.9 FM
Merritt Perkins, age 97, passed away on Wednesday, Feb. 6, 2013 at Thurston Woods Village in Sturgis. He was born on August 29, 1915, the son of Jay R. and Bertha M. (Reames) Perkins. Merritt attended a one-room school in the village of Corey through the eighth grade, winning a trip from Cass County to the Michigan State Fair. He graduated from Three Rivers High School with the Class of 1932.
Merritt’s many interests included photography, music, and the complicated world of computers, including the ability to build his own. He was endowed with an unusual memory, recalling many experiences from the early days of his life. He remembered his maternal grandmother, who emigrated from England at an early age, telling stories of sharks following their ship.
For many years Merritt was associated with the Florence Holland store in Three Rivers, handling repairs, and also had a locksmith business. He was a member of the Associated Locksmiths of America since 1968 and had written articles for their magazine, “Keynotes”. He was also a member of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, a technical professional society, The Computer Society, and the Standards Association.
Mr. Perkins was preceded in death by his parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles. He is survived by a cousin, Maynard Rumsey of Three Rivers.
Per Mr. Perkins request, his remains have been donated to the University of Michigan. Arrangements were entrusted to ELEY FUNERAL HOME in Centreville.
