John W. Perry Jr.

John William Perry Jr. passed away Friday 5/17 peacefully in his home, surrounded by his loving family. He fought an uphill battle against cancer for 4 years, and never quit. His motivation and positive attitude was an inspiration to all who knew him. Our hearts ache at the thought of continuing on without his bright smile and infectious laugh, but we are comforted in knowing that he is no longer struggling. His family extends their love and gratitude to the compassionate care John received from Beacon Hospice and Sister Caritas Cancer Center.

John was born in Springfield on August 25, 1955 to the late Barbara (Petrlak) and John Perry Sr. He worked at Friendly’s Ice Cream in Wilbraham in HVAC for 48 years. John was a talented cribbage player, a music lover, and an incredible fixer-upper. He loved to make people laugh with his quippy one-liners, fondly remembered as “Jake Jokes.” His backyard was his paradise, and he loved spending summers maintaining his beautiful garden. His faith was unwavering, and he found strength in the Lord throughout his journey.

John cherished his family and friends, and was happiest when surrounded by the people he loved. He was always the loudest and proudest Dad at his childrens’ sporting events. His favorite vacation spot was Aruba with his beloved wife, or camping at Salisbury Beach State Reservation with his family – despite the frustrations of parking the camper!

John will be missed dearly by his devoted wife of 40 years, Deborah of Wilbraham; his loving children Kayla Perry of Springfield, and Jill Perry of Wilbraham; and his treasured grand-cat Ebby. He leaves behind his beloved siblings: James Perry and his wife Lynn of Westfield, Brian Perry and his partner Claudia Fagan of Nashua, NH, his brother-in-law Richard Paul of Ware, and countless nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his sister Kathy Paul (2012) and sister-in-law Karen Perry (2015). John also leaves his treasured extended family: father-in-law Richard Owen and his wife Helen of Chicopee, brother-in-law Michael Owen and his wife Maritza of Chicopee, and sister-in-law Sheryl Guilbault and her husband Paul of Ludlow.

John’s calling hours are Tuesday 5/21 from 4-7 PM at the Wilbraham Funeral Home, 2551 Boston Road, Wilbraham. His celebration of life will take place on Wednesday 5/22 at 11 AM at Bethlehem Church, 123 Allen Street, Hampden. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Sister Caritas Cancer Center, Patient Care Fund, 271 Carew St., Springfield, MA 01104.