Robert Walter Perkins

Robert Walter Perkins

Services: Thurs., Nov. 14, 10 a.m.

Robert Walter Perkins, a longtime Bakersfield resident, died on November 10, 2002, after a very brief illness. He was 83.

Bob was born in Walla Walla, Washington, on February 15, 1919. He spent the first twenty years of his life in Northern California, where his father worked in the lumber business and ultimately went to work for State Farm Insurance Company. After serving his country in World War II, Bob also began working for State Farm. He was an outstanding salesman, and was promoted to the position of District Manager of Kern County, where he worked until his retirement in 1983.

Bob always said that he was extremely blessed to have found not one but two wonderful women in his lifetime. He was married to Marguerite Johnston, his first wife and mother of his three sons, for more than forty years until her death in 1982. Upon his retirement, Bob married Kathryn Proctor, and spent the remainder of his life with her. He was grateful for both Marge and Kate every day of his life.

Bob was affiliated with a number of different Bakersfield organizations, including the North Bakersfield Optimist Club. He enjoyed serving first as the Vice-President, and later as the President of the Optimist Club for two years. He was also a member of the Masonic Lodge, the Veterans of Foreign Wars of California organization, and the Great Beginnings Christian Church. Through his wife Kate, he was involved with the Retired Teachers Association. During his retirement, Bob enjoyed traveling, fishing, and visiting with his family. He and Kate loved gardening on their 2 acre home in East Bakersfield.

In addition to his beloved wife Kathryn, Bob is survived by three loving sons, Kirk,, Calvin and Arden; his five stepchildren; and his sister, Carmen Ayers. He also leaves behind his 11 grandchildren; 18 stepgrandchildren; 4 great-grandchildren; 17 step-great-grandchildren; and his nieces and nephews. Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Bea Perkins; his first wife, Marge, and his brother-in-law and friend, Harry Ayers.

A graveside service will be held for Robert Perkins at Hillcrest Memorial Park on Thursday, November 14, 2002 at 10 a.m. At his requests, it is preferred that donations be made to charity in lieu of flowers. His favorite charity was the American Cancer Society.