William Perry

William “Bill” John Perry, 69, passed away peacefully on May 24, 2020 at Backus Hospital. Bill was born in Norwich, CT on January 3, 1951 to the late John W Perry Jr, and Florence (Parkhurst) Perry. He was also known as GreyBeard.

Bill is survived by is wife, Shirley (Barlow) of 44 years. He is also survived by two daughters, Wendy and her husband Antonio II (Cruz) and Christina and her husband Scott (Scanlon). He also is survived by his three “monkeys”, his grandsons; Michael Jr. and Ethan (Crowe) and Antonio III (Cruz). He is also survived by his siblings, Merton, Carol (Radecki), Scott, Ruth (Strout) and Mark. He also has many nieces and nephews.

Bill had some high school education at Montville High School. He has had some jobs before landing his longest one at General Dynamics/Electric Boat in Groton, CT. He started May 18, 1976 and retired January 31, 2013 (37 years) as a Thermal Nuclear Insulation Technician (pipefitter). There he made many friends, and taught many people his tricks of the trade.

Bill had many hobbies and favorite things to do. He loved going to the Waterford Speedbowl, as he was pretty much a staple there. He would help out with many things around there. He went there every summer from the beginning and was well known there. He loved to spend his Sunday afternoons, in front of the television watching NASCAR with a beer in his hand. His favorite driver was Dale Earnhardt. He also had his greatest past time of riding his motorcycle all around, each motorcycle was his baby. He loved get togethers with friends and family, and telling stories of his adventures. He would also play his guitar and told stories of when he was in a band in his early adulthood. He hummed and played his harmonica as well. He also would watch, “Joy of Painting” with Bob Ross and learned how to paint on saw blades and regular canvases. He was always the builder, making his own easels and other items in which he took pride in his work. Once he retired, he loved working on different projects and enjoying the outdoors.

There will be a Celebration of Life at a later date.