Kent A. Perkins Obituary

Sadly, Kent A. Perkins of Lake Zurich, Illinois, born in Chicago, Illinois passed away. Family and friends are welcome to leave their condolences on this memorial page and share them with the family.

He was predeceased by : his parents, Austin Alden Perkins and Ann Marie Perkins. He is survived by : his wife Linda S.; his children, Kurt Perkins (Julia) and Megan Portenlanger (Joe); Sheri, Jennifer (Doug) Pittman, Sarah; his grandchildren, Samantha, Daniella, Joey, Alden, Tyler and Declan; his brother-in-law Andrew Hughes; and his father-in-law James E. Hughes.

Kent was raised in Edison Park, IL. He graduated in 1962 from Taft High School in Chicago. He continued education at Wright Jr. College. Kent worked as a Facilities Supervisor at The Kitchens of Sara Lee where he was the “fix-it” extraordinaire. During a work day in 1974, he successfully revived a co-worker and friend after he suffered from a life threatening heart attack. Kent received the highest award given by the American Red Cross, a Certificate of Merit signed by President Gerald Ford.

During his 27 years at Sara Lee, he began his public service career. First, by joining the National Guard in 1963; 1966 as a fireman; 1971 served as a paramedic; 1975 joined the Village of Kildeer as one of the four original members of the Kildeer Police Department; 2005 promoted to the rank of Sergeant; after 36 years of service he retired in 2011.

Kent was a jack of all trades with a generous public spirit. He was a member of CERT and IEMA. Kent became an expert sharp shooter and firearms instructor. At one time he taught tennis and completed martial arts. Kent and Linda enjoyed spending time together and with family in their North woods cabin for 25 years.

Kent was a dog lover and In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Save-A-Pet Adoption Center 31664 North Fairfield Rd. Grayslake, IL 60030.