He married his wife Rebecca C. Perrine on June 12, 1962. They were married for 42 years until she passed away. They had one son, Raymond Perrine. In 1971, shortly after the birth of their son, Gary and Rebecca moved to Naples and purchased their first mobile home park, Palm River Mobile Home Park. Over the next 14 years they purchased five more properties from 2009-2013, around the state of Florida. He was also instrumental in expanding the business through purchasing multiple single and multi-family residences. Though less active, he was still integral in Perrine Enterprises, the business that and he and his wife started.
Gary graduated from The College of Engineering at the University of Florida with a Bachelors Degree in Civil Engineering. Gary was an Engineer for TWA, designing the terminal to handle the new Boeing 747 at JFK Airport in New York City and was nominated for “Young Engineer of the Year” for this work at the Kennedy Space Center.
He was a member of Amvets, the American Legion, Friend of the VFW and had a passion for playing Blackjack and making money. In the 1980’s, Gary discovered Blackjack. He spent countless hours and days learning how to beat the game. Just like in all aspects of his life, his goal was to gain more money. His family, his business and Blackjack sustained him through the difficult time following his wife’s passing.
Gary's first car was a 1956 Chevy 210, which he took straight to the garage to dismantle the motor much to his parent's dismay. Beginning that day, his love of racing began. He would often approach people, a.k.a. "victims", at the drive in and challenge them to a race. On race days at the drag strip, he enjoyed the prize money over trophies. He and his wife had a love of boating for many years before then finding a passion for RVs. Gary and his wife spent many days and nights taking adventures in both their boat and RV.
Gary is survived by his son Raymond (Daniela) Perrine and his grandchildren Cecilia (Jan), Sebastian, Alexandra, and Victoria. He is preceded in death by his wife Rebecca and his brother Torbett.
Funeral services will be held on Friday, March 25th at Hodges Funeral Home, 525 111th Avenue North, at 2:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers please make donations to the Alzheimer’s Association.
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