David Alan Perry, born May 25, 1949, passed away on November 21. He was the son of Norma Jean Perry and Robert Perry, and the beloved brother of Donald Perry.

  After graduating high school, David proudly served in the United States Navy, beginning a life defined by hard work, dedication, and quiet perseverance. He later married his high school sweetheart, Georgene Creamean (who took his last name, Perry, and later remarried as Evers), and the two moved to Orlando, Florida, where they welcomed their daughter, Jennifer.

  David spent many years in Florida working as a carpenter — a trade that suited his skill, patience, and creativity. He was a proud member of the Florida Carpenters Union, where he honed his craft and built work that he took great pride in. After leaving Florida, he returned to Streator, Illinois in the early 1990s to care for his father. He moved back into his childhood home, where he remained for the rest of his life. David later worked for Peabody Myers, which became Vactor Manufacturing, and retired from the company in 2014.

  David was a carpenter by trade and a builder by heart. He could make anything with his hands and taught Jennifer everything she knows about woodworking. His garage — his cherished workshop — was his favorite place to be, always filled with projects, tools, and the sound of him “piddling around” and whistling without even realizing it.

  He knew every Western movie by heart, could tell a story with the same enthusiasm every time, and was famous for retelling the same stories over and over — each one delivered as if it were brand new. He loved the simple joys of life: cooking a good old-fashioned breakfast, taking care of his roses garden, spending time at campgrounds, being out on any bod of water, and sharing drinks and laughter with his close friends. And above all, he loved being around his grandchildren — especially racing RC cars with them. He made sure to pass along one of his most important lessons: never say “Ford” in his house. It was Chevy or Dodge only, a rule they all learned quickly and loved teasing him about.

  He is survived by his daughter, Jennifer Orton, her husband Marc, and their children Lillian (15) and Jacob (12), who brought him so much pride and happiness. David was preceded in death by his second wife, Marie Perry, whom he loved deeply.

  He will be remembered for his presence, his stories, and the quiet ways he showed he cared. His family will continue to honor him through their memories, their laughter, and the love he shared with them.

  Due to David’s love of animals memorials may be directed to the Livingston County Humane Society.