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Gregg Perko Obituary

PERKO, GREGG of Geneva, Florida, died suddenly at his home on May 4, 2010. His life was dedicated to his family of four children Zo, Keyan, Tristen and Makala, and his wife of 20 years Kelly. In his brief time with us, Gregg quietly built a life of integrity based on loyalty, kindness and selfless love. Born November 3, 1963 this Winter Park native is preceded in death by his father, Edwin Perko and his mother, Agnes Perko. He is also survived by his siblings, Cara, Connie,
Cheryl, Charlene and Gary, and also by his nieces, Jenna, Robin, Ashley, Hanna, Kayla and nephews Clinton, Chase, Philip, Gabriel and Brandon. His legacy lives on through his children; Zo with his creativity, Keyan with his quiet strength, Tristen with his athleticism and Makala with her loving strength to just do. A Celebration of Life service will take place Saturday, May 8, 2010 at the Enzian in Maitland from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Flip-flops encouraged! In lieu of flowers, donations can be made towards the children's future.

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

Published by Orlando Sentinel on May 7, 2010.

Memories and Condolences
for Gregg Perko

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Shannon Sosebee

May 1, 2025

This guy is truly missed. I think about him often and I know how proud of his kids he would be right now!! He was a good man, great father and craftsman. God must have big plans for Gregg. He was taken from us way too soon!

Douglas Massey

May 1, 2025

Hey Gregg,
Where did 14 years go? Why did you, a truly excellent person, have to go so young? I have no answers, just more questions. Just know you are missed dearly.

Connie Perko

May 1, 2024

I think of you every day and miss you SO much. But, you do live on thru your children.so lucky to have them in my life.

Connie perko

May 1, 2021

Gregg, you are always in my thoughts and in my heart!

Connie Perko

May 1, 2020

I think of you everyday Gregg-- I can't believe it has been 10 yrs. You would be SO proud of your 4 wonderful children. They have brought me more joy than I could ever imagine. I see so much of you in each of them. Love you and miss you. Thankful that you are at peace and in Heaven and are the special Angel who watches over all of us.

Connie Perko

May 1, 2019

Not a day go by that I don't think about my brother. He would be SO proud of his Children for the wonderful young adults they have all become. I truly share his pride, as I have been so blessed to have them in my life. I love you Gregg!

Rebecca Martin

May 11, 2010

I was so sorry to hear about Gregg's passing. We were friends in high school and together with Ray we spent many days goofing around and going to the beach to surf. I remember Gregg's gentle way and sweet disposition. He was a true friend to all he met. I am sorry that our lives took us on different paths and we lost touch with each other. My deepest sympathy and prayers are with you during this difficult time. May God comfort you in this dark hour. Gregg you will be missed deeply.
Sincerely, Becky Wilder Martin

Laurie Merrill Host

May 11, 2010

Dear Perko Family: I have had the incredible fortune to know this family for over 50 years. Gregg was the altar boy in my wedding while his sister, Connie, served as my maid of honor. I later reconnected with Gregg when his children came to Goldsboro. I had the enormous pleasure of watching this incredible father fight for the best education for his children. His warm, genuine smile and generous offerings of hugs were a familiar and welcomed gift to all who knew him. I cannot begin to express how deeply sorry I am for your loss. You will all continue to stay in the hearts, prayers, and souls of so many people who care and love you.

Doug Massey

May 10, 2010

Dear Kelly, Zo, Keyan, Tristen and Makala,

I was so shocked to hear of Gregg's passing, and seeing his face online brought back all of the fond memories I have of him as well as a flood of sorrow that he is gone from this earth. Helping me build my parent's house and helping me in the beginning of our woodworking days he always had a great attention to detail and a wonderful gentle manner. He was always an inspiration to me and I just can't believe he is gone. Even though we have not had much contact in the last few years, I will miss him dearly.

I can't imagine the grief and pain and other emotions you guys are going through at this time and I am so so sorry to hear of Gregg's passing. I send my heartfelt condolences to you and hope that you can find some relief from your sorrow and pain during this very difficult time.

Shannon Sosebee

May 10, 2010

Gregg left us too soon, but he left a huge mark here on earth. Just look at his four wonderful children and you know he was a great man. Maybe God needed some new furniture or building something grand for the rest of us when we arrive. He got the best man for the job. Zo, Keyan, Tristin, Makala and Kelly you are so lucky to have had him in your lives. Love you guys. Loved Gregg he will be greatly missed..

Connie Perko

May 9, 2010

I love my brother and his children with everything I have. But now, a piece of my heart will be missing forever. My only comfort is in knowing that the exceptional virtues that Gregg possessed- love, honor, commitment, truth, sincere kindness & importance of family,- will live on in his children who already portray these qualities. Zo, Keyan, Tristen, & Makala - I love you all more than you can even imagine. I am here for you for ANYTHING from now until the day I join your phenomenal Dad in Heaven. - Connie

Connie Perko

May 9, 2010

I love my brother and his children with everything I have. A piece of my heart will be missing forever. I am comforted only in knowing that the exceptional qualities of love, honor, commitment, truth, compassion and belief in family that he possessed so completely will live on in his children forever. Zo, Keyan, Tristen, & Makala- I love you all more than you could even imagine. I am here for WHATEVER you need from now until the time that I join your Dad in Heaven.
--Aunt Connie

Sandy Fortin

May 9, 2010

Gregg is a part of my memories of my life... so glad to have known him albeit it so briefly, once met never forgotten.... R.I.P.
My love to Kelly and all the family.

Tim Ricke

May 8, 2010

Kelly,

It is a sad day for you and I shall pray and think of you and the kids knowing that Gregg left on "White Wings."

Rick Jeffries

May 8, 2010

I was so sorry to hear of the loss of our good friend Gregg. He was one of my closest friends growing up in Winter Park and will forever remain in my fondest childhood memories.

So many memories come rushing back at a time like this. Gregg and I shared the duty of lowering and folding the flag in front of Brookshire Elementary. I remember that getting out of our last class a few minutes early to handle this assignment made these two young boys feel very important. We also manned a crossing guard station together (actually, Gregg was the official crossing guard, I just hung out there with my good friend pretending to be important). Later on, Gregg and I ran track at both Glenridge and WPHS. We spent countless hours running laps around the track and sharing good times with our other great friends Ray, Stan and Paul...we were quite a crew.

One particular memory includes a camping and surfing weekend in Cocoa Beach. We ran across a couple of tourists and started a brief conversation. They told us that they were from Canada. I didn't hear them clearly and rather than asking them to repeat, I said how nice that must be..."where is that exactly?" Well you can imagine the confused looks I received. Gregg enjoyed retelling the story of my geographic prowess whenever we got together. It always made us laugh. You, as a member of the Gregg Perko circle of friends, now share the story and can enjoy the laugh along with me and Gregg.

It's a shame that time and distance interrupted this good friendship. To Gregg's family I extend my deepest sympathy and wish you comfort. Hopefully, these brief snapshots from Gregg's childhood will make you smile. He was a great friend!

Michael Courtney

May 8, 2010

Wow! I am so saddened to hear the news. My thoughts are with all who knew Gregg. I shared a wonderful Mardis Gras with Gregg and Kelly back in '88. They were true soul mates even then. I shall miss our renewed friendship (however brief) There is one more star shing in the sky tonight! and boy how that star will shine. Miss you Gregg. Love you Kelly and the kids. xxx
Mikey xxx

Mary Gardner

May 7, 2010

As a teenager, Gregg was always a smart, sweet, kind and talented person. As a man, he was a role model to us all of how to really live a life worth living. I am honored beyond belief that I knew Gregg and my life will forever be changed.

Darla Reynolds

May 7, 2010

To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.

Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."

It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man.

God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.

When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.

I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.

There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.

If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.

So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.

And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.

Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2010

Chris Smith

May 7, 2010

Kelly,
I am so sorry to hear this news. Please accept my sincere condolences. I'll keep you and your family in my prayers.
God bless you,

Paula Branton

May 7, 2010

Gregg's spirit lives on in your hearts and memories, uplifting you, guiding you and keeping you strong. Sending you peace, prayers and love.

Ojela Frank

May 7, 2010

My thoughts are with your family during this time of need. With deep sympathy...

debi dean

May 7, 2010

Prayers for the entire family, he will be missed by so many.

Jenna Dee

May 7, 2010

Gregg had such a quiet, gentle soul. For me he will forever remain an example of what it means to live a life of purpose. Thankfully his strength, kindness, and selfless love continues on through Zo, Keyan, Tristen and Makala. We will always cherish our time short time with you. We love you Gregg!

John Gilliam

May 7, 2010

I am completely blown away. Greg was one of the nicest, most laid back people I ever met – and his love and devotion to Kelly and the kids showed in everything he did. To say I am sorry does not make a dent, but I am truly sorry. I hope that all of the great memories come flooding back to help you during this time. We all love you and want to help in any way possible.

Lori and Christina Pantoliano

May 7, 2010

Kelly Zo,Keyan,Tristen and Makala
Our thoughts and prayers are with each of you at this time of need. Gregg was such a wonderful man, father, and husband with all the support and help that he would give to our girls, and to the football team that Tristen played for always a smile on his face and a kind word always.
We love you all and please let us know if there is anything we can do for any of you.
God has called another Angels to watch over all of you and all of us he is a special star.
God Bless to you all
Lori and Christina Pantoliano

Greg, Kelly and Koos at Audubon Park's Pyathalon Event

Kat Quast

May 7, 2010

Lori (Pahl) Tankel

May 7, 2010

I was so sorry to hear about Gregg. We attended WPHS together. He was such a fun loving and kind person. My deepest sympathies to his family.

Larry Seel

May 7, 2010

Gregg and I were friends through our school years, and I am sad that we lost touch as we grew older and had families of our own. I know that he was loved and brought happiness into many, many lives.

May 7, 2010

Gregg was the ideal of a great human being. Though the world has lost one of its best we are all better for the time we had him with us. God takes the special ones from us early because he needs their help in Heaven.

Paul & Dee Dee

Irene Caguinguin

May 7, 2010

Much love to you and the kids, Kelly!

Donnie Ewers

May 7, 2010

I've known Kelly since primary school. Kelly and Gregg represented to me the ideal way to live as a couple, mutual respect for self and others, consideration and empathy for all, driven by virtues and values we could all benefit by incorporating into or attitudes and behaviors. thaks Gregg and Kel. there is no doubt in my mind that your childern aer proud of you, which is a goal all men should strive towards. G*d is so proud of you.

Paulette Valdez

May 7, 2010

To Kelly and Family,

To each of you our heartfelt condolences and sympathy at this time. We will keep you in our thoughts and prayers. Please let me know if there's any way I can help!

Sincerely,

Paulette Valdez & Family

Marie Fields

May 7, 2010

My prayers are with you and your beautiful family Kelly - and I grieve with you over this loss. So sad I hurt inside for you. God has given you everything you need to soar - open your wings and take flight into the future and know this is sunrise not sunset for Gregg.

Marie E. Fields

Kathy Tomcavage Boyd

May 7, 2010

I am so sorry to hear about Gregg. We were friends in high school and have alot of good memories from track meets and boating on Lake Howell. As sad as this is for all of his family, I know his Dad will sure be happy to once again have him by his side "appraising" the many mansions in heaven. Everyone grieves in their own time and way, we pray God will give you peace and your memories bring you comfort. All of you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Sincerely, Kathy Tomcavage Boyd

Minda

May 7, 2010

my deepest symphathy, he was a very helpful and caring person, he will be missed by his friends, we will keep you and your family in our prayers, and like my daughter said to makala, keep your beautiful smile,

Ray Sturm

May 7, 2010

Kelly, Zo, Keyan, Tristen and Makala - to say that I was sad to hear the news doesn't even begin to express my sorrow. He was like a brother to me and he loved all of you with all of his heart and soul. My sincere condolences.

Shannon McClain

May 7, 2010

What a beautiful spirit and gentle soul this man had. Always doing anything for his family. Prayers for the entire family.

Robin Neill

May 7, 2010

Gregg was a man with unconditional love for his family. He always put others before himself. He will be missed by so many! We love you!

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