Donald "Don" Dominic Perno

He was born on April 24, 1938 in Youngstown, Ohio, to Rose and Joseph. He was preceded in death by his wife, Gail, and his brother, Joseph and sister-in-law, Diane. He is survived by his brothers: Lou (Betty) and John (Ansley) and his children: Donn (Lane), David (Melaney), Joy (Dodd), Joseph (Leigh), Julie (Daniel) and Jessica (Kevin) and twelve grandchildren: Mac, Dorothy, Saidee, Hayes, Addy, Lucy, Bo, Neelie, Jack, Trip, Danny and Louise.

He moved his family to Athens, Georgia in 1969 when he and his uncle, Zippy Morocco, opened an Arby's franchise. Additionally, he went on to successfully run Perno's Formal Wear.

Among many other admirable qualities and traits, Don was a devout Catholic and a loving family man and friend. He prided himself on his Italian heritage and loved hosting Italian Sunday dinners where invitations were coveted. An active member of the Athens community, you could always find him at one of his favorite local breakfast spots, on the Athens Country Club golf course or playing cards with any willing opponent.

In his later years, he suffered from Alzheimer's disease and resided at Highland Hills where he kept all the nurses on their toes. He never lost his sense of humor or his ability to make people laugh. He will be greatly missed, but there will never be a time when you feel a tap on your shoulder that you don't think of him.

There will be a private funeral service for the family, and they will host a visitation for friends Thursday, February 17, from 5 - 7 p.m., at Athens Country Club.

In lieu of flowers please send donations to Daughters Against Alzheimer’s, 3215 Wood Valley Rd., NW, Atlanta, GA 30327, or www.daughtersagainstalz.org

Bernstein Funeral Home is in charge of funeral arrangements.