Kenneth Wayne Perkins, fondly known as Kenneth to his friends and family, passed away peacefully on November 1, 2024, in San Angelo, TX. Born on April 7, 1949, in Hollis, OK, Kenneth’s journey was one marked by dedication, service, and a love for the natural world. He was a faith-filled man, intelligent and creative, who approached life with the same vigor with which he tackled many interests.
A proud graduate of Central High School in 1967, Kenneth attended Angelo State University where he majored in History, a subject that remained dear to him throughout his life. His academic journey, however, was cut short by the Vietnam War. Kenneth served his country as a Navy Seabee during the Vietnam War, an experience that shaped much of his ethic and character. After his military service, he embarked on a career that would see him spend the lion’s share of his time in law enforcement and construction. In both fields, he was respected for his work ethic, his ability to lead, and his unwavering commitment to the task at hand.
Family was the cornerstone of Kenneth’s life, and the perfect example of that was his wife, Suzanne Perkins. He also leaves behind a loving brother, Jimmy Perkins and his wife Becky of Clyde, TX; his beloved sisters, Joy Ann Roach of Austin, TX, Patty Thayer of Peachtree City,
Georgia, and Nancy Little and her husband Keith of Anna, TX. His legacy is also carried on by
his cherished daughter Kimberly Rabon, her husband Todd, grandsons, Dalton and Dillon of
Fredericksburg, TX, and his stepson, Christopher Chandler, his wife Angel, grandson, Brandon of Shelton, WA. Kenneth’s life was enriched by the love and bonds he shared with his family, including his other “children”, Kevin Fluke and family of Phoenix, AZ, Justin Fluke and his family of Burleson, TX and finally, John Jones and his wife of Jenks, OK. As well as numerous nieces and nephews. His family will always hold his memory close to their hearts.
Kenneth’s zest for life was evident in his numerous outdoor pursuits. He relished the time spent fishing, hunting, camping and gardening, basking in the serenity and challenge of the natural world.A skilled marksman, Kenneth also enjoyed shooting sports and in his younger days, he enjoyed roping with friends, and was always up for a good time. Kenneth was blessed with amazing friendships throughout his life.
Those who knew Kenneth would agree that he embodied the words that he often repeated, “If it weren’t for the bad times how would you know it’s the good times?” Indeed, Kenneth loved a good time, but he also knew with a little hard work and the right attitude, bad times would pass. Tomorrow is what you make of it.
Kenneth was a man of profound faith, a guiding principle that saw him through times of trial and triumph. His intelligence was evident not only in his love for history but in the insightful conversations he shared with those around him. Creative in his problem-solving, he often found innovative solutions to the challenges he encountered, both in his professional and personal life.
As we bid farewell to Kenneth Wayne Perkins, we celebrate a life that was lived with purpose and passion. His story is one of resilience, service, and the pursuit of knowledge, set against a backdrop of the great outdoors he so loved. He will be remembered not only for the roles he played as a brother, father, husband, and friend but also for the indelible mark he left on the world around him.
Kenneth was proceeded in death by his parents, Howard and Joy Mae Perkins, his brother-in-law Dave Thayer and niece Courtney Bowie. Arrangements for a military burial and remembrance of life will be scheduled at a future date. He has left us with memories that will continue to guide and comfort us, just as the stars guide a ship at sea. Kenneth Wayne Perkins, a true original, will be deeply missed but never forgotten.
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