Michael Kennon Perkins

Dear Kathy, Becky and all family: We were greatly saddened to hear of Mike's death. Mike and I have great memories of Mike from OKC. My best memory is of him coaching our girl's basketball team and being in the Silent Movie. He was a great villian! Our thoughts are with you--Lots of Love--The Nielsens--Mike, Carolyn, Michael, Katie & Scotty

As AP, Mike was the first person I met as I arrived in the mission field in Guatemala. I later had the opportunity to serve with him on the island of Flores, Peten. His love for the gospel and for the people of Guatemala was evident in everything he did. Even as he finished up his mission, he was an example of hard work and dedication to the Lord. I learned faith and trust, love and perseverance from him as I watched him teach the gospel. He showed a respect for everyone, young or old, member...

I'm deeply saddened and without words. I hope Michael's family is aware of the far reach of his good will. You are in my prayers.

Professor Perkins was a wonderfully animated man. I was fortunate to have him as a teacher. He inspired many by his zeal for life and his profession. My condolences to his family whom he often spoke fondly of in class.

As my advisor at Drake, Professor Perkins was a tremendous influence on me. His door was always open and I can honestly say that without his guidance, I wouldn't have a lot of the blessings that I have in this life. My sympathies to the family for their loss. He will be deeply missed by all those who's lives he touched.

I will never forget what a great communications and law teacher Brother Perkins was while I attended BYU. He always remembered names and faces, even years after you took his classes, and he never let you pass by without a great big smile and hello. As a teacher, he was truly inspiring. But, what was even more inspiring was how he talked about his love for his wife and children and his love for the gospel. My deepest gratitude sympathy to his family and loved ones!

My heart goes out to all of Mike's family - Donnette, his children, and the family I knew in my youth. There are many great memories. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Please accept our heartfelt condolences. We both knew Mike at BYU, working at the Daily Universe together, and Lee later worked with him at the Deseret News. We are so impressed with the great accomplishments he acheived through his life, in his career, and most importantly, among his fellow man. We read of his passing in the Washington Post, and I'm sure newspapers across the country gave notice of his death, as evidence of the widespread influence for good Mike had in his life. We will...

I can see Mike now in front of the classroom, his face beaming and his long arms outstretched, sharing his passion for journalism. At Drake, I valued his guidance, first as a student and then as an adjunct. I was honored that he trusted me to teach some of his courses, but I was envious of the charm, enthusiasm and generosity he brought to teaching and leading others. Mike's legacy lives on in newsrooms and classrooms across the country.