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Edward Allen Perry

Edward Allen Perry

MARQUETTE TOWNSHIP, MI – Edward Allen Perry, known affectionately as Gekek Oshkiinzhig to those who shared in his Native American heritage, which means “Hawkeye”, passed away peacefully in Marquette on April 11, 2024, at home in the loving care of his family, at the age of 68.

Born on May 14, 1955, to William and Pearl (Paquette) Perry, in the same town that would witness his remarkable life’s journey from beginning to end, Eddy was a true son of Marquette, a true Swamper and Trowber, and a proud graduate of Marquette Senior High School.

After high school, Eddy answered the call of duty and served his country in the United States Army. His commitment took him to Korea, where he dedicated four years of service before receiving an honorable discharge. Returning home, Eddy embarked on a new adventure as a commercial fisherman, navigating the waters of the Great Lakes for 15 years, building a reputation for his hard work and expertise.

When the tides of life shifted, Eddy found solace and challenge in the woods, taking up logging, a profession that kept him close to the earth he revered. His industrious spirit didn’t stop there; he also became a self-employed private mechanic, applying his skills and resourcefulness to help anyone in need. Eddy’s work ethic was only matched by his generosity and willingness to lend a hand, making him a beloved fixture in Trowbridge Park.

His interests were as vast as the Great Lakes he once fished. An avid Detroit Tigers and Lions Fan, always waiting for his Lions to win the Super Bowl. Ed was also a great baseball player. His connection to nature was profound, enjoying the simplicity of hunting, fishing, and working on his camp. He found joy in feeding the birds and squirrels, a simple pleasure that reflected his kind and nurturing soul.

Eddy’s laughter was contagious, and his ability to make others laugh was a gift he freely gave. Family was the cornerstone of his life, and he cherished every moment spent with them. As a proud member of the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians, Eddy held his Native American heritage in high regard, embodying the spirit of community and fellowship in all his actions.

His beautiful smile and outgoing nature made him a friend to many, and his ability to fit in with anybody was a testament to his friendly and kind demeanor. Eddy was the person who would give the shirt off his back without a second thought, a testament to his generous spirit. Eddy had a special bond with his brother-in-law Bryan Reynolds, who was more like a brother to him. He had many friends, one of his best friends being his cousin Ernie Mattson.

Eddy is survived by his loving children, Billi Jo (Glenn) Lehtomaki, Kimmie Perry, and Missy (Jason Rzanca) Perry, all of Marquette. His legacy continues through his cherished grandchildren, Mikayla (Dakota) Alexander and Tyler Lehtomaki, and great-grandchildren, Cashtyn Lehtomaki and Caius Alexander. He will also be fondly remembered by his brothers Billy (Kathy) Perry, Monte (Sue) Perry, Ted (Phyllis) Perry, his sisters Sandy Bellmore, Becky (Bryan) Reynolds, Wendy (George) LaFave, and several nieces and nephews who will miss his guidance and humor.

Eddy was preceded in death by his beloved parents, his grandson Bentley Perry, his brother Joseph Perry, his sisters Kitty Myers and Sue Perry, brothers-in-law Richard Bellmore and Mike Myers, and his niece Bobbi Sue (Perry) Roeder and a great-niece Jadee Sue (Bellmore) Taylor.

Eddy Allen Perry’s life was a tapestry of service, community, and laughter, woven with threads of kindness and friendship. His memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew him and in the natural beauty of the Marquette landscape he so dearly loved. He will be deeply missed, but his spirit will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to have known him.

Visitation will take place at the Fassbender Swanson Hansen Funeral and Cremation Services on Thursday, April 18 from 10:00 am until 1:00 pm. Services will be held at 1:00 pm with Fr. Dan Moll officiating. A reception will follow in the funeral home reception room. Interment will take place on Friday, April 19 at 10:00 am in the Holy Cross Cemetery with military honors.

Memorials may be made to the Perry Family, 2022 Center Street, Marquette, MI 49855.

The Fassbender Swanson Hansen Funeral and Cremation Services is serving the family where condolences may be expressed online at fassbenderswansonhansen.com.