Robert Lee Perkins

Robert L. Perkins, 85, of Bridgman, passed away on Saturday, April 3, 2021, at West Woods of Bridgman. Arrangements have been entrusted to Heritage Chapel & Cremation Services. A Celebration of Life Homegoing Service will be held on Thursday, April 15, at 12 PM at The Ark of The Covenant Church of God in Christ, 848 Buss Ave., Benton Harbor with Pastor Roy C. Askew, Sr. officiating. Cremation will follow the service. Friends may visit with the family from 10 AM until the time of the service at the church. Out of respect for the family and guests in attendance, masks and social distancing will be required. Memorial contributions may be made to the family, payable to Kathryn Perkins. Those wishing to leave an online condolence may do so at www.heritage-chapel.com. Robert was born on April 22, 1935, in Hickman, Kentucky. Robert was born to Charlie & Versie (Govan) Perkins and was raised by his grandmother, Emma Swift. On January 24, 1960, Robert married the love of his life, Arthurine Strong. The two were happily married for 47 years before her passing in 2007. Robert was employed with Benton Harbor Malibu as a factory worker for 17 years before changing jobs and working for the Berrien County Road Commissions for 20 years before he retired. He also worked part time at the former DJ’s Laundry Mat where he enjoyed talking with the customers and making friends. During retirement, Robert would wake up and head to McDonald’s where he would meet up with his other retired friends for a hot cup of coffee and some breakfast. He also liked to watch Friends and Seinfeld. Robert is survived by his children, Glenn, Gwendolyn, Doris, Calvin, Kathryn, Melvin (Michelle Knuth) and Brenda Perkins; sister, Eva Perkins; 13 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; 1 great-great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his grandmother, Emma; wife, Arthurine; infant son, David; siblings, Edward, Mary, Charles, and Jules Perkins; infant granddaughter, I’Adore Glenn Perkins; and parents, Charlie & Versie.