Search by Name

Search by Name

Michael Perry Obituary

On Oct. 11, 2008, Michael Perry, 46, of Avondale died when the four-seat airplane he was flying crashed northwest of the Santa Teresa airport in New Mexico.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Arizona Republic from Oct. 13 to Nov. 18, 2008.

Memories and Condolences
for Michael Perry

Not sure what to say?





Christina Vose

January 16, 2009

I was shocked and saddened to hear of Mikes passing. I have known the Perry family my entire life and feel that you are an extension of my family. To Merit, my brother, I love you and will always be here for you if you need anything. Virginia, I thank you for raising such a wonderful man. We were all blessed to know him and everyones life he touched was better for it. He will never be forgotten and will forever be in my thoughts and prayers.

God Speed Michael ~

Michael

December 25, 2008

The only thing greater than the pain in losing him…was the pleasure of knowing him. For as evident in the words of his family and friends, you couldn't find a better man.

Spencer Perry

November 26, 2008

My dad was a really great guy, and he always looked out for me. He always cared about how I felt, cheered me up and made me laugh. He was helpful to everyone who needed his help. He made up funny jokes (even though sometimes they were mean). But no matter what, he made me laugh. He was the best dad in the whole world, and everyone will miss him. I loved him, and he loved me. I will always be his “Bug Boy”!!!!!!

Rachel

November 26, 2008

Michael,



These words I wrote are for you:



You spent all your time helping and lending your hand to all those who asked of you. There's always some reason to help one more time even though that your day, it was through. You needed some great challenge or problem to solve. Though we may not all understand why you have left us, if just for while for God who's extended his hand.



You’re in the arms of the angels. Fly away from here to the arms of your loved ones and to all those who hold you so dear. Though those left here may mourn you, they will see you again. You're in the arms of the angels, may you find some comfort there.



So tired of the schedules, that everywhere you turned there's things that you felt should get done. May you now rest easy and know in your heart that your work here on earth it was done. Fly high in the clouds now; escape one last time. You finally now can get sleep in this great madness and horrible sadness that brings us to our knees.



You’re in the arms of the angels. Fly away from here to the arms of your loved ones and to all those who hold you so dear. Though those left here may mourn you, they will see you again. You're in the arms of the angels, may you find some comfort there.



You're in the arms of your angels, may you find your comfort there.



Love always,

Annette "Schuldt" Jacobs

November 12, 2008

Jill: I am so sorry to hear about the passing of your brother. I remember your brother from being at your house in high school and always thought it was so cool how he was always watching over you and your little brother, making sure you were cared for. I am sure that he is a special angel for you and your family in heaven.

Annette Judd-Raley

November 5, 2008

Dear Jill & Family,

We've been friends since Freshman year and I love you so much! I know you and Michael were close and you must miss him terribly. My heart goes out to you and your family as you mourn the loss of your sweet brother. Love, Annette

Virginia, Jill and Merit

November 3, 2008

To All of our Beloved Friends and Family, We wish to thank all of your for taking the time share your your love and prayers with our family. The special comments and rembrances work a special magic in our lives bringing a ray of sunshine and to brighten and lift our lives.

Tom and Michele Traina

October 30, 2008

We were so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.

Fred Gardner

October 30, 2008

Love Ya Mike.

Grace & Richard Bauer

October 27, 2008

We are deeply saddened and shocked by Mike's passing.
He will be dearly missed. Our condolences to his family.

Sylvia Montierth

October 27, 2008

Aunt Virginia, Uncle Alma, Jill, Merit and Family: We will miss Michael! We are sorry for your loss. You all will be in our prayers for months to come. We hope comfort and healing comes daily and that the memories will last forever. We will all be together again because families are forever. We love you so much. Gordie and Sylvia Montierth

What a Handsome Guy in the Fall of 1989

October 24, 2008

Kayla, Brynn and Daddy at the fair 10/10/08

October 24, 2008

James & Maribeth Lee

October 23, 2008

To all of our Family Friends and loved ones. Thanks for your love, support and kindness. Michaels' Uncle and Aunt.

Brian & Shalene Stutz

October 23, 2008

We love you Uncle Alma and Aunt Virgina. We are saddened by the loss of our cousin and friend. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and the rest of the family.

Kelly and Mark Bosak

October 23, 2008

To all the Perry family, we would like to say that we loved Mike. We met him through working for us, but he became what we considered a true friend. We enjoyed his company and he was excellent at what he did. We were shocked and deeply saddened when we heard the news. We were grateful that we had gotten to see him just the week before, but had no idea it would be our last time to see him. Our prayers our with all his kids we know he loved you all deeply. He was a wonderful and honest, caring person we were grateful to have known and call our friend and we miss him deeply.

Janette Hardy

October 21, 2008

I am thankful that I knew Michael as a missionary in Arkansas and later as a friend when we both returned home. I remember him as a leader in the mission field speaking a zone conferences and inspiring the missionaries to be better. I was grateful that when we returned home we continued as friends. I will always remember his smile as he was concocting some sort of devious prank or joke. He was an amazingly talented man and I am thankful that I had the opportunity to have known him and call him my friend.

Lorinda Bergen

October 20, 2008

I did not know Michael but I knew his sister, Jill. Even though I've only known Jill since last January I know that she loves her family very much and Michael was very special to her. Jill, my heart goes out to you and your family and may God's peace be with you all during this time.

Pat Burchfield

October 20, 2008

To the Perry family, I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Michael Perry. He was a good man! Wish I had told him so more often.

Tammy Musick

October 20, 2008

To Michael's family, friends, and loved ones--My heartfelt sympathy and deepest condolences to you all. Please know that my children and I are keeping you in our prayers.

Scott Nowacki

October 20, 2008

To Mike's family and friends I would like to extend my condolences. I've only know Mike since February. The time we worked together and collaborated a bit led me to believe he was a good guy all around. We'll miss him.

Susie Ryan

October 20, 2008

To Mike’s family I want to express my condolences on the passing of your son, father, friend and loved one. To Mike’s mother I understand your pain as I lost my son two years ago at the age of 34 and to his children I lost my dad 22 years ago and it just does not seem possible it was that long ago. Just remember he will always be in your heart and in your thoughts. Right know you have mixed emotions but they will get better over time. You never get over the loss but in time, it gets manageable. Remember the good and the bad times and everything will even out. Remember he will be with you always and if you ever need to talk to him he even though he will not be with you in person he will be with you in spirit and he will hear you.

I knew Mike from doing our security system where I work for the State of Arizona and let me tell you he was a joy to see. He always had a smile on his face and never a bad word. He always made me smile and laugh and he was just an easygoing type of person. You could tell him anything and he always listened. Every time I need someone to come to the laboratory, I would say to Don “send Mike”.

Mike you truly earned your wings god bless you will be missed.

Me and Michael Flying To Rocky Point for Spring Break 08'

October 18, 2008

Sharon Getz

October 18, 2008

Jennifer & Family,
We are so saddened by your loss. May you find comfort from your friends and family during this difficult time, knowing that Mike is resting in God's memory. We will be thinking of all of you.

"Bug" and Dad at the Race Track

October 17, 2008

Olivia Aguilera

October 17, 2008

My thoughts and prayers are with you, Rachel, Kayla & Spencer and The Perry Family. Words cannot express how sad we feel to here that Michael had died, It was a shocking news, when you called me Rachel, and told me Michael had crashed his plane and died, I could not believe it, I was with out words.

May the lord give you strength and comfort during this terrible time.

Our family will be praying Michael Perry and all his family for strength and comfort. God Bless you

My Sincere condolences are with you all.

Sincerely yours,

Olivia Aguilera,daughter Ashley and family.

The Fanums

October 17, 2008

Our deepest sympathies to the Perry family. And, to Spencer, Kayla, and Rachel our far-away but always-near
hearts are with you.
Love, T/L/M/J

Janie Platt (Kingman Airport Authority)

October 17, 2008

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

Tom Villegas

October 16, 2008

To the Perry Family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

May God hold you and keep you,

Marlys and John Ackerman

October 16, 2008

Please accept our deepest sympathy for Michael's family.

Mark Broadley

October 16, 2008

On behalf of the Scottsdale Cultural Protection Srvices Staff our sincere condolences and best wishes at this time.

Paul and Carolyn Ackerman

October 16, 2008

God bless you, Kayla, Spencer and Rachel. Words cannnot express how sad we were to hear of this news about Mike. May the Lord give you His strength during this time, and we will be praying for you all. Prov. 3:5&6

Phil Perry

October 16, 2008

As a fellow RV-10 builder and aviator, I heard about Michael (and Jim's) passing.

My family's prayers go out to your family at this time of loss.

Romans 8:18

Jennifer

October 15, 2008

To My Soulmate: I loved you the moment I laid eyes on you. You had the kindest face I'd ever seen and when I looked at you I knew...I was meant to spend the rest of my life with you. I loved you more every single day. I miss your voice, I miss your smile, I miss how you and I would laugh for hours at a time. I miss calling you 100 times a day to tell you what our crazy little daughter is up to. She misses you too. You will always be her "best friend ever" I will raise her as I know you would, with patience, love, understanding and humor. I cannot replace you, but I will love her enough for both of us and she will always, always know what an amazing daddy she had. You brought 3 incredible children into this world and I cannot thank you enough for leaving behind those 3 pieces of your heart. I am so grateful that we had the opportunity every day to tell each other how much we loved one another. I am glad that the last time I saw you, I kissed you and hugged you and told you I loved you. I hope you had that memory with you. I could not wait until the day I could call you my husband. But now I know I have to be patient and just wait a little longer. I know that one day we will be together and I will love and miss you every day until then. You are and always will be the most incredible man I have ever met. I love you Bunny.

Lydia Rankin

October 15, 2008

My thoughts and prayers go out to the Perry family and all of his loved ones. I knew Michael for only a few years but all of the memories I have of him are of a fun-loving and very caring person. I'm so sad and shocked about what happened, may he rest in peace.

Rick Sked

October 15, 2008

My deepest sympathy to all of your family. Aviation holds close it's own. God Speed Michael. Fly High!

He'll forever watch over you!

Debbie Gard

October 15, 2008

Jen, my sweet dearest friend, my heart is absolutely breaking for you and sweet Brynn, as well as the rest of Michael's family. I wish I could be there to give you a big hug. I am here for you 24/7. Michael is now your Guardian Angel, watching over you and his children. I love you, Debbie

Doug Reeves

October 15, 2008

To the Perry family,

I didn’t have the pleasure of meeting Michael (or Jim), but as a fellow aviator have a pretty good idea of where at least some of his passions were directed. I wish I had the words to express how truly sorry I am for your loss.

God bless your family and friends, and if there is anything you need help with, don’t hesitate to ask.

With deepest sympathy,

Deems Davis

October 15, 2008

To Mike's Family and Friends:

I am so sad to learn of Mike's passing, I've become acquainted with him through the building of a similar airplane (RV-10). We've exchanges e-mails, and met in person during a visit to Aerozona. My sympathies and condolences to all affected.

Lorin and Kathy Partridge

October 15, 2008

Our love and sympathy to the family and friends and especially his children!
Love The Partridge Family

Stein Bruch

October 15, 2008

I would like to express my sincerest condolences on behalf of Michaels fellow aviators, my empolyees and Michaels fellow airplane builders. I've had the good fortune to work with and get to know both Michael and "Dr.Jim" on their airplane project, and it saddens me to see them gone. As a pilot, fellow aircraft enthusiast and overall nice guy, he will be missed by many. Those who spent time with Michael and Jim at the fly-in thoroughly enjoyed their company and can say without a doubt that they were having fun that day doing what they enjoyed. God Bless to all of you, and I'll end with one of my favorite quotes:

"It's wonderful to climb the liquid mountains of the sky. Behind me and before me is God and I have no fears."

By Helen Keller after flying in an airplane.

Randy Wylie

October 15, 2008

My heart goes out to all the people that cared for Michael, He was truly a great man with a fire for life, I will miss him

A fun day at the race track

Kayla Perry

October 15, 2008

You were the greatest Dad anyone could ever ask for and you could always make me laugh. I will miss you and think about you everyday. Thanks for always being there and being my best friend. I love you Dad!

Peggy & Kim Tilley

October 15, 2008

To a man who will be dearly missed by all who knew him. Although I have only known Mike for a couple of years, he was a great person, liked by all, with a love for flying. He would do anything for you whether a long time friend or just an acquaintance. Our thoughts and prayers are with his children and his family.

Ryan McMahon

October 14, 2008

Kayla,
I am so sorry about your loss, I just found out today and all I can do is think about you. I know you loved him so much and he will always be there for you.
I love you Kayla and i will always be there for you! Any time you need to talk, call!

October 14, 2008

To the Perry Family,

I’m deeply saddened to learn of Michael’s passing. Michael was a fellow co-worker and a wonderful friend. Michael and I were co-workers at Rural Metro Corporation from ’93 through ’96. We kept in touch with each over the years, and I was fortunate enough to work with him again in a different capacity. “Mikey” had a tireless work ethic, non stop energy, willing to help everyone, was very polite and always had a friendly smile. I admired him for his ability to maintain his composure and sense of humor no matter how difficult the situation. I had the opportunity to fly with him on several occasions and I’ll never forget the trip over the Grand Canyon. He will be solely missed by all, my thoughts and prayers to his family.

Sincere Condolences,
Rick George and Family

Michael Doing What He Loved

October 14, 2008

Kayla, "Bayla", Michael & Spencer, "Bug"

Rachel Perry

October 14, 2008

You were my best friend and made me laugh almost every day. You will be missed more than you will ever know. Thank you for giving me two beautiful children who adored you. You will be with us forever. Until we will see you again... Fly free and finally get some sleep...

Sharley Johnson

October 14, 2008

Mike was one of the greatest men I have ever known. The best friend anyone could hope for. My thoughts are with his family. I will never forget him or his kindness. One Christmas he flew me and Rick to pick up a Christmas gift from my mom, a little Chihuahua puppy. Every time I look at Hunter I will think of him. I can't help but think how the much the world is missing out on one of its "good" people.

A Night With Mike To Be Remembered!!

October 14, 2008

Rick Myrick

October 14, 2008

I will never be able to express in words my feelings of loss for my best friend, roommate and co-worker. Michael was an exceptional man with an open heart to help anyone, anywhere, anytime. Michael was there for me when I most needed him, just like he would have been for others. Michael will be sorely missed and my thoughts and prayers are constantly with his children and family. Michael, as you fly around with the angels, remember one thing you always told me, "keep the nose up, and wings level". I love you, miss you and will be thinking about you every minute of the day and night.

Michelle Street

October 14, 2008

My sincere condolences go out to all of Mike's family and friends. May god grant you peace and understanding through this difficult time.

Richard and Stephanie Rhoton

October 14, 2008

We are so sorry for your loss. Michael was a favorite cousin and will be missed by many. Our family's thoughts and prayers are with you.

Patsy Fitzpatrick

October 14, 2008

No other one person has touched the life of each member of our family as completely as Mike has. More than friend, he's family. We will miss him every day. Our heart felt sympathies go to his parents and siblings. You are also family. Please know we are here if you need us for anything. We'll hold our memories dear and rejoice that we had the blessing of Mike in our lives.

Scott Bergeson

October 14, 2008

To the Perry family,

I am sorry to hear about Mike's passing. I was one of his missionary companions in Arkansas over 20 years ago. He loved his work and encouraged us all not to take ourselves so seriously. He was a wonderful person. All of my memories of him make me smile.

My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Mary Collins

October 14, 2008

Kayla, "bug" (spencer) and Brynn,

I am truly sorry for your loss, your dad and I were good friends. I hope god blesses you with peace at your time of need. He will be missed.

Marilyn Sloan

October 14, 2008

Virginia,
I am so sorry about the loss of your son, Michael. Please let me know if I can help you in any way.

With heartfelt sympathy, Marilyn

Chris Hultquist

October 14, 2008

Our thoughts and prayers are with your family on Mike's passing. He was a very dear friend and coworker. He was always there when you needed him and had many a great time finishing jobs way into the night. He will truely be missed by many. God Bless!

Lance Immel

October 13, 2008

Fly high through the next life Mike, you will be remembered, all the best to your family.

Jan Cass

October 13, 2008

Sincere condolences.

Having lost my husband 5 months ago, I can only tell you time helps heal. You will still have some ups and downs, but the downs are fewer as time goes by.

Just hug your daughter and love her for both of you!

Lucky Saucedo

October 13, 2008

I am so sorry for your loss. I Send you my deepest condolences.

Norm Brice

October 13, 2008

Kayla,

We are so very sorry about what happened to your dad. Please know that in addition to Nicole, our whole family is here to help any way we can. You and your family are in our prayers.

Norm (Nicoles' step dad)

The Shine family

October 13, 2008

We are sorry of your loss. May god be with you during this trying time.

Ron Luebke

October 13, 2008

Dear Jennifer and family,

I was very saddened to learn of Mikes passing. Although I have not seen Mike for several years, I remember him well from working with
him at Rural Metro Corporation. Mike was always friendly and willing to offer a helping hand to all he worked with. Seeing his picture here reminds me of the always present smile and positive attitude. I was not aware of his passion for flying, but I completely understand it. Take solace in the fact that he was doing something he loved on his last day.You and your family are in our prayers as you go through this difficult time.

Chris Gomez

October 13, 2008

Mike was a very much an unselfish person and always ready to be a freind and help you when you need it.
God Bless Michael and his family.

j d

October 13, 2008

I wish you luck
"Death makes angels of us all and gives us wings where we had shoulders smooth as ravens claws"
-Jim Morrison

The Mikolajczyk's

October 13, 2008

I am so sorry for your loss. Our deepest condolences go out to your entire family.

Showing 1 - 68 of 68 results

Make a Donation
in Michael Perry's name

Memorial Events
for Michael Perry

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

How to support Michael's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Michael Perry's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more