It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved Willard Leonard Perry Jr.
Willard was born on November 20, 1941, in Saint John, New Brunswick, to the late Willard Joseph Perry Sr. and Anna Lorraine (Nielsen). The family lived on St. Paul Street until 1954, when they relocated to Quaco Road, Ben Lomond. Willard Sr. worked at the Irving Shipyard and Anna’s brother Duke was the bass player for Don Messer and his Islanders - music runs in the family.
Will graduated from Simonds High School in 1961 and immediately joined the Royal Canadian Air Force, training in avionics. During his distinguished career, he served at CFB Greenwood, Shearwater, Edmonton, Esquimalt, and finally at North Bay, Ontario, where he retired in 1992. He spent his retirement years at his home on Lake Nipissing, enjoying canoeing, fishing, tinkering in his garage, and the company of his cherished Samoyed, Lady. He loved fixing things and enjoyed computers, home theatre, movies and books, a spirited game of cards and riding his motorcycle. With his sharp mind and wit, there wasn’t much he couldn’t debate about, fix or improve, and he was an inventor in his own right.
Not a fan of cold weather, Will spent his winters in Homosassa, Florida, from November to May each year. An avid dancer, he was an active member of the square dancing community in North Bay, Ontario.
Will is survived by his daughters Jeannette (Scott) Low and Melanie Mae Perry Santos; his former wife Annie Archibald (Geddes); and his granddaughter Sophia Low. He will also be dearly missed by his brothers James Perry (BC) and Rod Perry (NB); his sisters Patsy Dickenson (BC), Ruth (Bill) Wells (NL), and Dorothy Anne Ferne (Sidney) Hillier (Hamilton, ON); as well as many nieces and nephews across Canada.
The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to his special friend, Anita Ouellette-Cooke, who shared many cherished moments with Will. A special thanks to the staff at the Empire Retirement Residence, where he frequently raved about the food and music and quickly made many good friends. Thanks, as well, to Dr. Phillipson, the staff at the North Bay Regional Health Centre, and the Northeast Cancer Centre in Sudbury.
Will, will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. We can only imagine the reunion he’s having with Roger, Cliff, Bub, Audrey and many more.
Arrangements entrusted to the Martyn Funeral Home, and online condolences may be offered at www.martynfh.com