LT. CMDR., E.L. Perry, Eugene Lawrence Perry, born July 27, 1934 in San Luis Obispo, Calif., died Saturday, June 13, 2015 in Atascadero, Calif.

Dad went to school in Arroyo Grande and graduated the Class of 1952. He was ASB and FFA President.

Dad went into the US Navy after high school and became a Naval Aviator. He served on the U.S.S. Hancock aircraft carrier. He served two tours in Vietnam. After 22 years of service, dad retired as a Lt. Commander.

Dad moved our family to Atascadero in 1975 following his military retirement. He went on to become a driver for UPS for several years. This gave him the experience to open up the business "Perry's Parcel Service" in Atascadero which still thrives today under other ownership.

With Dad's experience of operating large machinery, he went on to deliver new tour buses across the nation. He drove buses for Amtrak, RTA Public Transit and even the trolley in downtown San Luis Obispo. He was quite the people person and made a difference to others doing small acts of kindness in his daily interactions with them.

Dad finally retired once and for all in 2006. He remained a Life Member of the VFW Post 2814 in Atascadero for the past 40 years.

Gene Perry's death is preceded by his High School Sweetheart and wife, Shirley in 2005 and by 14 of 16 siblings. He was the youngest of 17 children. He is survived by his children, Gerald "JP" Perry, Kelly Perry-Shelton, Kirk Perry, Helena Moze'; grandchildren, Kevin, Meagan, Melissa, Amber, K.J.; great grandchildren, Jerimiah, Kylie, Destinee, Izaiah, Jalen, Noah, Jordan; brother Andrew Perry and sister, Delfina Fancher.

Gene died peacefully in his home being cared for by his four children.

SERVICE INFORMATION:

A GRAVESIDE SERVICE with full military honors is scheduled for 10:05 a.m., Thursday, June 25, 2015 in the Arroyo Grande Cemetery, 895 El Camino Real, Arroyo Grande, Calif.

A CELEBRATION OF HIS LIFE will follow at the VFW Post 2814, 9555 Morro Road, Atascadero, Calif.