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Perry Thatcher Obituary
News Death Notice
THATCHER, Perry David age 79, of Middletown, died Thursday, January 28, 2010, at his residence. He was born September 5, 1930 in Middletown, the son of Paul Thatcher and Mary (King) Thatcher. He graduated from Middletown High School in 1948. After high school, Perry served his country in the U.S. Navy Reserves. He started his adult working career at Inland Container in Middletown at the entry level of janitor and he worked his way to the top position in the company as General Manager. Perry attended college in the evening and earned his Master's Degree from the University of Cincinnati. After retiring from Inland Container, his corrugated background propelled him to his next undertaking as a Corrugated Paper Equipment Consultant. At age 65, Perry decided to take up ballroom dancing to spend time dancing with his daughter Kathie in preparation of the Charity Ball. Perry has been a past guest director of the Middletown Symphony where he provided his talent for their annual fundraiser. He has been a part of starting numerous businesses in the Middletown area including Corroc Packaging, Precision Packaging, Progressive Paper, I Fiber Optics, Manchester Hotel, Middletown Tennis Club, and Ample Industries. Perry served our community as a member of the Middletown City Council and provided leadership and worked diligently to spearhead the new Middletown Atrium Hospital. He also served the community on the Board of Directors for Mid Miami Valley Chamber of Commerce, Middletown United Way, Middletown Rotary Club, Middletown Junior Achievement, Middletown YMCA, Middletown Regional Hospital, Bank One, Middletown Community Foundation, Fibre Box Association, Association of Independent Corrugated Converters, First National Bank, and the American Heart Association. He was a member of the Masonic Lodge. He is survived by three daughters, Sheree L. (fiancé, Jay Trent) Garrett of Middletown, Jennifer L. Thatcher of Boca Raton, Florida, Kathleen L. (husband, Matthew) Wassenich of Middletown; grandchildren, Luke Edward Garrett, Justin David Bray, Janet Rene Garrett and Heather Lee Bray; great grandchildren, Justin Bray Jr. and Marlee Wagers; his fiancée, Lisa Rupp and her daughter and son, Jennifer (husband, Chad) Cradlebaugh, and John Rupp; and her grandchildren, Alexis, Cade, Maddix, and Ava; one sister, Alice (husband, John) Agoston of Middletown; and one brother, Arthur Thatcher of Merritt Island, Florida. He was preceded in death by his wife, Janet Lee Thatcher in 1997, son-in-law, Bruce Garrett in 2000, and his parents. Funeral services will be 2:00 PM, Monday at the First Baptist Church, 4500 Riverview Avenue, Middletown with the Reverend Ken Fey and Reverend Greg Tyus officiating. Visitation will be from 1-5:00 PM, Sunday at the Breitenbach-McCoy-Leffler Funeral Home. Entombment will be at the Woodside Cemetery. Military honors will be conducted by the Middletown Combined Honor Guard.
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Memories and Condolences
for Perry Thatcher
Shelley Million - Owens
February 24, 2010
To the Thatcher family, I didn't know Perry personally but my Dad worked at Inland Container with him for many years. My Dad thought the world of him and is truly sad at this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of Perry's family left behind to grieve. God be with you all....
Carolyn (Wills) Highley
February 14, 2010
Sheree,
I'm so sorry for your loss, you're in my thoughts and prayers!!
kimberly smith rn
February 12, 2010
Sheree and Kathy, I was so sorry to hear of Perry's passing. I remember all those days of taking care of your mother and how gentle he was with her and how kind he was with all of us from Hospice. He really was a kindhearted soul and devoted to you all and to Middletown. Know that you are all in my prayers.
Sherry & John Langhorne
February 11, 2010
Dear Kathy & Thatcher family, So sorry to hear of Perry's passing. He was such a positive supporter of the Middletown business community. It was always a pleasure to run in to him and talk about his latest venture or vision. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
February 8, 2010
To the Thatcher FAMILY: I was always proud to say I was employed at the Manchester and had been there for 47 years, but when your Dad came on board as one of our owners, I was even proudier. I thought , if Perry had faith in us , we could move mountains.My condolences to all of you. He will be greatly missed by all. Lavern Long
Gayle Ertel
February 8, 2010
I was so sorry to see in the paper that your father had lost his battle with cancer. Just 3 weeks ago I had sent him an email to ask about one of his many business ventures that, in fact, changed the life of my father, Eugene Benninghoff. Perry took the knowledge and skills my father had of the corrugated paper industry and supplied the capital for the invention and development of the Big Mac box. My father passed away on February 9, 2005. At the visitation Perry comforted my siblings and me with these words: "Your dad was the smartest man I ever knew."
God blessed my dad with Perry Thatcher when he, like many today, had lost his lifelong work at a time in life when seeking employment was tough. Through Perry's vision and faith in our Dad, my father was able to do a work that he loved and excelled in.
I know how much you will miss him, as will the Middletown community. I know that Perry is so thankful to be home with Janet. And, who knows? Maybe he and my dad have already started cooking up another amazing invention.
God bless you,
Gayle Benninghoff Ertel
Pamela
February 8, 2010
We offer our deepest sympathy. When tragedy strikes and takes the life of our loved ones, many cry out with great sorrow. Your tears are not unnoticed by the Creator of Life. Never was it his purpose for our human lives to be taken away. Although your deep pain will not easily disappear, prayer to God will bring comfort to you as you grieve. The Bible assures us God "is healing the broken hearted ones, and is binding up their painful spot." Psalm 147:3.
Sheila Senften
February 6, 2010
Sherree,
I'm so sorry for your loss. My prayers go out to you and your family.
Sincerely,
Sheila Senften
Deanna Back
February 5, 2010
My heart goes out to PT'S family. When the remodeling from the flood at Manchester Inn this past year. You would see Perry and Lisa there daily helping with a smile with a new adventure of the remodel of many parts of the building. Thank you for all you have done proud employee of The Manchester Inn.
Doreen Butt Hampton
February 5, 2010
I just got back into town and was so sorry to hear that your dad died...he was very kind to me and my children at the tennis club allowing me as a single parent to continue having my kids play there at a discounted rate several years ago and also providing ATP tickets to us. He was an inspiration to all and he will be missed by many, Doreen Butt Hampton
MaryJane (Stubbs) Themudo
February 4, 2010
Dear Sheree - I'm so sorry to hear of the passing of your father.There's nothing like that. I have fond memories of special Sundays when I could go home w/y'all from church & spend the day. Then on Sunday night, we'd get to go watch your parents bowling league. It was really fun. When I moved away from Midd as an adult, I heard of the MANY things he did for Middletown. Bless you in your time of grief.
Melanie Bucci
February 3, 2010
Sorry for the loss of a wonderful man. Perry, I thought the world of you. You were the most caring friend to me, may you rest in peace. Sincerely, Melanie Bucci
February 3, 2010
Sorry for the loss of a wonderful man. Perry, I thought the world of you. You were the most caring friend to me, may you rest in peace. My deepest sympathy, Melanie Bucci
Larry Getz
February 3, 2010
Perry was a great guy! The first time I met him was on Rockdale Road,I had to wait until he got off the bulldozer to talk with him,this was Perry hard working ,but once you showed him that you too would work as hard for him as he would for you ,no more waiting.I will miss his leadership,and caring smile.
John Bolden
February 2, 2010
So sorry to hear about Perry's passing. I worked with him at Inland Container for quite a few years. God bless him and his family.
Rhonda Posey
February 2, 2010
We would like to extend our deepest sympathy to Perry's family. He was a wonderful person and we feel fortunate to have known him.
Steve and Rhonda Posey
Shannon Martin
February 1, 2010
So sorry to hear of your loss. My condolences to the entire Thatcher family, may God keep you in his arms in your time of need. Middletown has lost one of it's biggest fans.
Cheryl Gabe
February 1, 2010
My deepest sympathy to the Thatcher family. My association with Perry was through the Middletown Area Family YMCA where I served as the executive director. Perry and I had a number of conversations regarding the future of Middletown. May the family be comforted by the community.
Betty Steele
February 1, 2010
My prayers are with all his family. Perry worked and was friends with my husband, Ken Steele for many years. Perry will be missed by many, Middletown has lost a very dedicated humanitarian.
Judith Johnson
February 1, 2010
Never knew Mr. Thatcher personally but I heard and read may things he did for Middletown Oh. I moved to Middletown 22 years ago and Mr Perry has done a lot for Middletown and they will miss him. Please let th family know that everyone thought a lot of him. He will be missed. God bless his family in this time of need.
February 1, 2010
So sorry abour your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you & your family. Paul & Joann Scorti
Butch & Vicki Chewning
February 1, 2010
Sherri,Luke,Janet&Jay
Our thoughts and Prayers are with you in your time of Grief. May the loving Memories of your Father and GrandFather bring you,and your Family Comfort
February 1, 2010
My condolences to the Thatcher family. My association with Perry was through the Doty House Board. His was a loving, wise, and settling influence on our deliberations and decisions. He will be missed. - - - Jerry Slama
Steve Cox
February 1, 2010
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
February 1, 2010
FEBRUARY 1, 2010
TO THE PERRY THATCHER FAMILY,
OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU AT THIS TIME.
JAMES "CHOPPY" SAUNDERS & ESTHER
PORT CHARLOTTE, FLORIDA
Reggie Castleman
February 1, 2010
It has been written..."To whom much is given, much is required." Perry indeed fullfilled that statement. Keeping Douglass Pool open, along with "Sonny" Hill, after the city no longer funded it is one of many great deeds he has done. His kind spirit and generosity will live forever. God Bless.
February 1, 2010
Kathy, may your memories ease your pain. You have so many wonderful memories. What a wonderful relationship you shared with your dad. He's dancing in heaven now! PT will be fondly remembered by so many. What a rich and rewarding life he lived!
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Take care,
Nadine
Pastor Michael Bailey
February 1, 2010
Mr. Thatcher, was a true visionary. I'll never forget that one defining moment when he suggested to "City Council" that we rebuild our community one- block- at-a-time (Ward)! May Perry's VISION become a reality. My heart and prayers are extended to the entire Thatcher family during this time of grief. May God comfort you, one- day- at- a- time.
Seth and Dolly Howard
February 1, 2010
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Jim Hartman
February 1, 2010
Perry was always the protective older brother when I shared 4th grade at Lincoln school with his sister Alice.
He made sure we got safely to the movies. He never forgot you, a year might pass, but it was "Hi Jim, how are you" whenever we met. Middletowns loss is Heavens gain.
January 31, 2010
Sheree, Luke and Janet
I know how much you are hurting and I want you to know we share your grief.
Perry was always nice to us and was a
great help to us in times past. How amazing to read in the paper of all the things he accomplished in his lifetime! Keep his memory close and
this will help in the days ahead.
Love and Prayers always.
Bert and Darlene
Don Morris
January 31, 2010
Former tenant @ 2 North Main. Great landlords Him and Judy. Great repect for his history and contributions to Middletown.He will be missed.
The LaRashia Simone Children's Foundation
January 31, 2010
A great loss. Great Man. We will miss you from all your supporters at The LaRashia Simone Children's Foundation (TLSCF.com)
Brad Beck
January 31, 2010
To the Thatcher Family,
We at Cardinal Container Corp. are very sad to hear that Perry has passed. Our prayers are with each and everyone of you. God Bless You..
Laura Forkner
January 31, 2010
Perry always had time to say hello.
He will be greatly missed.
May his love for this city stay with all of us.
Rich Bevis
January 31, 2010
Kathy, Lisa, Judy, & Family, Lisa and I are very sorry to hear of the loss of Perry. What a wonderful man who gave so much to so many. To say we will miss him is an understatement. Our hearts go out to all of you.
Rich Bevis & Lisa Bouchz
Debbie (Surgenor)Ratliff
January 30, 2010
Sheree (Kathy, and Jen)
I am so sorry for the loss of your dad. Sheree, it's been quite a few years since we were in high school, but I always really liked your dad. He loved this city and will be missed.
Cindi and Jim VanWinkle
January 30, 2010
Dear Sheree,
Jim and I are so sorry to hear of your loss.
I remember your dad, when I would hang out with you when we were Freshmen in High School, and he was always so nice and always made me feel welcome.
My family thought alot of him and my brother, Andy, always spoke highly of him.
May God and your special memories give you peace at this very difficult time.
David T. and Rose E. Morgan
January 30, 2010
Please accept my wife's and my sympathies for your father. I was his partner in the old Wrenn Paper mill property. We will miss him.
January 30, 2010
Lisa,
Or should we say Liza. Our hearts go out to you. We witnessed a beautiful relationship between the two of you. We know the love that you have for each other. May your beautiful memories of Perry ease your pain. We love you.
Bobby & Vonnie
To Sheree, Kathi and Lisa Families:
We loved your Dad, and we love you.
Bobby & Vonnie Hendricks
Bob Greenwood
January 30, 2010
Janet and Perry were great friends. She was my volunteer at the hospital and I assisted them when she was doing badly with her disease. HE should have been been named "MR MIDDLETOWN" for all the energy he had put into Midtown
God Bless th famiy
Helen & Ralph Welch
January 30, 2010
Kathy, We were so sorry to hear about your father. Love as always, your old neighbors,
Jackie and Tom Arnold
January 30, 2010
Jennifer and family
We are are so sorry to hear of the loss of your father. Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of sorrow. We are here for you always.
Paul & Cecelia Nenni
January 30, 2010
Please accept our deepest sympathies.
Jim Mills
January 30, 2010
Perry.....where have gone so quickly? I knew you for many years, and I marveled over the years at the things you did to help Middletown while also expanding your business portfolio. If it were not for you and your acquisitions, I doubt that Middletown would be the same place, especially downtown. The list is long. I remember in those early days of parties we attended together with Bob Wells and others. They were fun. And now Bob and you are both gone. You both tried to save your hometown. For those efforts, the people of Middletown owe you a great debt. Rest in peace friend.
Janet Banks
January 29, 2010
Kathy,
I am so sorry to hear about your dad. I didn't really know him personally but have heard only good about him. I just want to say that you and your family are in my thoughts as you go through this very trying time. God Bless & Take Care.
Kayla's grandmother,
CONRAD & HEIDI HASKINS
January 29, 2010
Kathy & Family
Our thoughts and prayers are with you
in your time of grief.
CONRAD & HEIDI HASKINS
January 29, 2010
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
January 29, 2010
perry was a very good boss i worked for him and berry levy at the manchster inn a long time they all will be missed don ledford
don ledford
January 29, 2010
perry was a very good boss i worked for him and berry levy at the manchster inn a long time they all will be missed don ledford
January 29, 2010
our thoughts and prayers are with the Thatcher family in your time of greif may perrys memories bring you comfort theres so much to say when it comes to perry i worked for him since i was 17 till i was 32 he made such a difference in my life he taught me so much....GOD BLESS THE THATCHER FAMILY scott and sherry proffitt
January 29, 2010
Kathy and family,
My deepest sympathy to all of you in this difficult time. I remember your dad from many years ago when I was over at your house to visit. He was always such a nice man and I know both of my parents also thought the world of him as they were high school classmates and lifelong friends. You're in my thoughts and prayers.
Susanne Jones-Fruland
Ginger Smith
January 29, 2010
My sincerest condolences to the Thatcher family. Perry was a valued friend and confidant. He was always there to listen He believed in me and supported me when few others did. Perry may have been small in stature, but he was a GIANT as a friend and colleague and as a lover of the Middletown Community. He did so much in such a humble way. Few know how very much he has done to help individuals as well as the city of Middletown. That's how Perry worked. I am thankful that I was able to speak to him just a short time ago and let him know how much I sincerely appreciated him. He has truly earned his place in Heaven.
Sincerely,
Ginger Smith
Palm Coast, Florida
January 29, 2010
Jennier & Family,
I am so sorry to learn of your father's passing. He was a great man who did so very much for the Middletown community. I like to think he is up in heaven right now being welcomed by all his friends there! You are in our thoughts and prayers. God Bless!
Anita Max
Tricia Perdue
January 29, 2010
Kathy & Family~
Middletown lost a great man today.
I am very sorry for you loss. All of you are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Sincerely ~ Tricia d'Entremont~Perdue
Cindy&John Clarke
January 29, 2010
To Jennifer and her sisters, I am so sorry for your loss. I never had the opportunity to meet your dad, but from what I hear he was an extroidanary person. Jennifer has told me alot about him and your mother. May God Bless and Keep all of you in His Loving Hands. Sincerely Cindy&John Clarke( I am Pattys' sister)
Greg Horine
January 29, 2010
To my very best freind Jennifer and her wonderful sisters. Perry treated me like a part of his family, always so kind and giving. I am heartbroken and will miss him so much. I am sure his late wife Janet is happy to be with him again, I can almost hear her excitment. How much I have loved you both. God please be with the Thatcher Family.
Robert Olding
January 29, 2010
Perry gave much more then he ever received. His kindness and inspiration will allways be part of my life. He was truly what every American should hope to be. I will always remember him
Gregory Tyus
January 29, 2010
With all the many family and friends who have gone on to heaven, I am now pleased to also have a "good buddy!"
Jenny and Mike Agoston
January 29, 2010
To the Thatcher Family,
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
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