Howard N. Perkson Jr. of Yarmouth Port, Mass., passed away on May 10, 2023 after a prolonged illness.
Born in Louisville, Kentucky to Howard N. Perkson and Rena (Quinn) Perkson in the fall of 1941, Howard N. Perkson Jr. is survived by his wife Nancy Perkson of 54 years, sister Pamela (Perkson) Brown of Clemson, S.C., his children Quinn Perkson, Plymouth, Mass., Amy (Perkson) Frith, Doylestown, Pa., Holly (Perkson) and Matt Simpson of Sturbridge, Mass., and grandchildren, Natalie, Melanie, Addison, William, Henry, Liberty, Ingrid, Heidi and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his son-in-law Brad Frith.
Howard N. Perkson Jr. graduated from Male High School in 1959 where he was a popular trombonist, enjoyed theater, was a student MC and was active in ROTC, debate and sandlot sports. After an initial year at Centre College, he graduated in 1965 from the University of Cincinnati and where he began Law School. Both institutions and his hometown of Louisville, Ky., remained steadfast in his heart, and he remained a vehement supporter and proud alumni. He became an Honorary Kentucky Colonel in 1970, though he rarely used the title he celebrated the Kentucky Derby annually as a national holiday. Truly a “people person,” Howard worked in human resources throughout his career and assumed responsibilities for union negotiations and advertising as he rose through the corporate ranks of Eaton, SPS Technologies, DeLaval and COZ corporation where he retired in the early 2000s.
Through his life he loved classic and antique boating, the company of family and friends, cooking on the grill, driving his convertibles, vacationing in the Belgrade Lakes and Long Lake of Maine and the beaches near his home in Yarmouth Port. Howard cherished time with his wife, Nancy with whom he enjoyed birdwatching and a deep personal faith. He loved the special time he was able to spend with his grandchildren and children. Never shy about imparting his advice or sharing his opinions, Howard was known for his dynamic personality, snappy sense of style, storytelling and sense of humor. At age 17, Howard lost his father, Howard N. Perkson to a fatal heart attack. This unexpected loss motivated him throughout his life to carefully and prudently plan and to give back. Active in numerous civic and charitable organizations, Howard served in leadership positions in the Jaycees, Chamber of Commerce, the United Way, Whitinsville Historic Society, Sebago Lake Antique & Classic Boat Society and his local church. He was the father who never missed a game for his kids or an opportunity to loudly cheer them on.
A memorial service celebrating his faith and life will be held at First Congregational Church of Yarmouth Port 399 Main St., Yarmouth Port, MA 02675 on Monday June 19 at 2 p.m. following a private family burial.
In lieu of flowers, contributions made in Howard’s name to Camp Sunshine https://www.campsunshine.org/giving/tribute-and-memorial-gifts will honor one of his favorite charities that benefits respite, recreation and support, while promoting joy, for children with life-threatening illnesses and their families.
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