James Thomas "Pete" Perkins Jr.

James Thomas “Pete” Perkins, Jr., 52, of Victoria passed away September 15, 2010. He was born August 23, 1958, in Victoria to the late James Thomas Perkins, Sr. and Nancy Greenleaf Perkins. He attended Victoria High School. He met and married his wife of 21 years, Jenni Hill, in 1989.

Pete was an accomplished heli-arc welder for numerous years at several chemical plants. Later in his career he was recruited for his knowledge and expertise by Gulf Marine to teach exotic metal welding. Some of his students came as far as from overseas. Pete’s balance and hand eye coordination were unmatched at an early age. Some memories include Pete and Dana riding their skateboards in a handstand and Pete riding a unicycle to school. Pete was also an accomplished swimmer and diver winning numerous swim meets.

Pete was a loving husband, father, son, brother, and friend. Pete’s love for his family was never questioned by anybody who knew him. When Pete spoke to you he made you feel that you were the only one who mattered. He was genuinely concerned with others and attempted to encourage those he could. He had a very complimentary manner. Those who knew Pete knew he never missed an opportunity to gather with friends and family to have a good time. He loved the river and all of God’s creation.

He is survived by his wife of 21 years, Jenni Hill Perkins of Victoria; his children, Karlee Awake Perkins and Kyle Thomas Perkins; his mother, Nancy Ann Perkins of Victoria; his sister, Jill Perkins Lumpkins and husband David of Victoria; his brothers, Tom Perkins and wife, Judy of San Antonio, Jeff Perkins of Victoria, Ben Perkins and wife, Julie of Whitney, Cy Perkins and his wife, Misty of Victoria, and numerous nephews and nieces.

He was preceded in death by his father, James Thomas Perkins, Sr.

A memorial service will be held at Rosewood Funeral Chapels at 10 am on Saturday, September 18, 2010, with Bill Shelton officiating. A reception following the service will be held at the Tanglewood Club House.

Words of comfort may be shared with the family at www.rosewoodfuneralchapel.com.

Arrangements under the direction of Rosewood Funeral Chapel, 3304 Mockingbird Lane, Victoria, Texas, 361/573-4546.