Walter "Ed" Perkins

CHARLTON, MA - Mr. Walter Edward Perkins, 98 of Charlton, formerly of Topsfield, MA and Fitchburg, MA beloved husband of Portia (Manasiotis) Perkins, passed away peacefully at his home on Wednesday, November 20th, 2024.
Born in Franklin, NH, he was the son of the late Fred L. and Helen (Clement) Perkins. He was raised and educated in Franklin and was a graduate of Franklin High School. Ed continued his education at Cushing Academy and was a graduate of Becker Junior College.
An honorably discharged veteran, Mr. Perkins proudly served his country during WWII as a member of the United States Navy.
Following his service to his country, Ed began a long and distinguished career as an Accountant and Administrative Manager in the paper industry predominantly working for Weyerhaeuser and James River Paper companies for over 35 years where he was known for his strong work ethic, attention to detail and was often sought after for his expertise.
Throughout his life, Ed was known for his adventurous spirit and deep love for his family. He enjoyed nothing more than spending summers at York Beach, ME, relaxing, swimming and teaching his children how to body surf. In the winter he would take time to teach them how to ski. He was truly happiest when surrounded by his family. Together with his wife, he explored the world, with annual trips to Florida for 25 years. He and Portia were very active at the First Baptist Church in Fitchburg where they were instrumental in helping the church start their daycare center and spent countless hours volunteering at the daycare. Ed found solace in nature and took pride in his gardening skills, particularly nurturing his prized tomatoes. Ed was a sentimental soul who had a affinity for animals, especially dogs. Ed was an active and longtime member of the Charles W. Moore Lodge in Fitchburg A.F. & A.M. where he served as Chaplin and Treasurer. His compassion and generosity touched the lives of all who knew him. He will be deeply missed by his loving family.
Surviving Ed in addition to his wife Portia, with whom he shared 67 years of marriage, are his daughters, Nancy Perkins of Mason, NH, Martha E. Gilford and her husband, Jim of Topsfield, and Diane C. DiDonato and her husband, Amedeo of Downingtown, PA his grandchildren, Emma Gilford, Michael DiDonato and his wife, Ashley and Christopher DiDonato, his great-grandchildren, Chase and Quinn DiDonato. He was also the brother of the late Gladys Wascher and Ruth Goodwin.
ARRANGEMENTS: Relatives and friends are invited to Ed's funeral service which will be held at O'Donnell Cremations – Funerals – Celebrations, 167 Maple St., (Rte. 62) DANVERS on Sunday, November 24th at 2 P.M. Burial is private. Expressions of sympathy may be made in Ed's memory to Shriners Hospital for Children, 51 Blossom St., Boston, MA 02114. To share a memory or offer a condolence, please visit www.odonnellfuneralservice.com.
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