Jerry D. Perrin

Jerry D. Perrin, age 78 of Osceola passed away surrounded by his family at the Hospice House in Elkhart on Wednesday, December 27, 2017.  Jerry was born February 26, 1939 in South Bend, Indiana to the late Lee E. and Edna (Lowther) Perrin.  They later moved to Elkhart where Jerry graduated from Elkhart High School, class of 1957.  Jerry was drafted into the US Army in 1962 and served overseas in Germany until his honorable discharge in 1964. Upon his return to the States, he spent several years driving a School Bus for Elkhart City Schools. On November 4, 1967, he married Tamara Henderson at the Osceola United Methodist Church.  They recently celebrated their 50th anniversary with a private dinner hosted by their family.

Tamara survives, along with their daughters Karla (Scott) Musser of Osceola, and Kerri (David) Eagan of Elkhart.  Also surviving is his granddaughter Kenna Musser and his little dog Sophie. Jerry was preceded in death by his brother Jim Perrin and his lifelong best friend Ron Hickman.

Visitation will be held from 4-7 pm Friday, December 29, 2017 at Cruz Family Funeral Home and Cremation Service in Osceola. There will also be one hour of viewing prior to the 11:00 am funeral service at Cruz Family Funeral Home on Saturday, December 30, 2017 with interment to follow in Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens, Osceola.

Jerry was employed for over 25 years as a supervisor of daily operations at Earthmovers Landfill owned by Himco Wasteaway.  Jerry continued on another 10 years with the Elkhart County Landfill until his retirement at the age of 65. 

Jerry had an amazing sense of adventure, and was able to ride in a hot air balloon with his best friend Ron and take hot laps around the track in a NASCAR Experience after his retirement. He was an avid fan of Jeff Gordon and the Oregon Ducks football team.

Jerry loved the outdoors and as a hobby, chopped and sold firewood to many in the area.  He also spent several years farming and raising beef cattle.  Most of all, Jerry will be remembered for his warm smile and enormous sense of humor.  He brought constant joy and laughter to those around him, especially his granddaughter Kenna, who he loved very much.

In his memory, donations may be made to the Center for Hospice Care, 501 Comfort Place, Mishawaka, Indiana 46545.  To leave an online condolence, light a virtual candle, or view Jerry’s online video tribute, please follow the links provided.

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