Robert Francis Perkins Sr.

Robert Perkins died peacefully in his sleep on June 29, 2016. He was born in Norwich on March 28, 1930 and had one brother Milton Perkins of Norwich, who predeceased him. He was married to Patricia Perkins for 45 years who predeceased him on March 11, 2016.

In 1945-46 he was a star football player at NFA. Bob served in the Marines from 1948 to 1952. He was a sharp shooter, a survivor of the Battle of Chosin Reservoir and a member of the Rocket team. He received the silver star, Korean service metal with 3 bronze stars, United Nations service metal, the Presidential United Citation Ribbon with 1 bronze star and the Honorable Service discharge button. He was a hero.

He was a member of the Marines track team in 1949. He was inducted to the Norwich Sports Hall of Fame in 1997. Bob served as Commander of the VFW Post 594 in Norwich from 1992 to 1993. He also helped veterans get the benefits they deserved. He loved his job of 34 years as a postal carrier with the Norwich Post Office. Bob enjoyed going to the Plainfield dog track, playing cards and spending time at the casino with his wife. He loved going out to eat at different restaurants but always preferred his own cooking, as he was a good cook. Bob was a one of a kind person and will be sadly missed. He is survived by his children Barbara Hoffner, William Hoffner, Cheryl Hoffner and partner Tom Suchocki, Valerie Brehler and husband Mike, Tricia Grant and husband Jon along with many grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Calling hours will be held at the Labenski Funeral Home on Tuesday evening from 6 to 8 pm. A graveside service with military honors will be held Wednesday at St. Joseph Cemetery in Norwich at 11 am.

Please visit www.labenskifuneralhome.com to leave a message of condolence for Bob’s family.

The Labenski Funeral Home, 107 Boswell Ave, is entrusted with arrangements.