Norman Perkins

H. Norman Perkins, 76, of Central Lake, died peacefully on September 18, 2018 at home. He was born August 7, 1942 in Hastings, son of Harold and Jodi (Hoffman) Perkins.

Norm attended Central Michigan University then enlisted in the U.S. army and served as a pharmacy specialist from 1962-1965. He completed his speech pathology degree at Eastern Michigan University and then went on to earn his Master’s degree in special education. Norm had a passion for education, helping students and teachers alike, in his role as a speech pathologist and a teacher consultant with the Char-Em Intermediate School District.

He had a strong sense of civic duty, serving as Central Lake Township Supervisor, Charlevoix Hospital Board member, Belltower Reformed Church consistory member, Lions Club member and Veterans for Peace member. He was an avid Detroit sports fan with a special place in his heart for the Detroit Red Wings. He fully subscribed to the conspiracy theory that every referee was biased against Detroit teams. Norm thoroughly enjoyed motorcycling and snowmobiling with his friends.

On Feb. 7, 1964 in Eaton Rapids, Norm married Vicky Alice (Racignol) Perkins. In their 51 years together, they shared a passion for education, reading, and travel. Their giving spirit enriched the lives of many. Vicky preceded him in death in July, 2015. On September 9, 2016 in Central Lake, Norm married Helen Cullen, who survives. They shared a loving relationship filled with laughter, companionship and the joy of their 4-legged friends. Also surviving are his children, Matt (Michelle) Perkins and Kate (Rob) Essenberg; sister Donna Perkins and grandchildren, Alex Perkins, Cole Essenberg, Matilda Perkins, Tess Perkins, and Brooke Essenberg.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, September 22, 2018 at 12:00 p.m., at the Central Lake First Congregational Church, with Pastor Paul Copeland of Faith Presbyterian of West Lafayette, Indiana officiating. A private burial will take place in Southern Cemetery, Central Lake. The family will receive friends Friday, September 21 from 4:00-6:30 p.m., at the Central Lake Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Lions Club, Charlevoix Area Hospital, Belltower Reformed Church or the Central Lake Congregational Church- Parish Nurse Program. Please sign his online guestbook www.mortensenfuneralhomes.com.