In loving memory of Martin Phillips Perkins Sr, a long-standing member of the Salem community, we announce his passing on September 9th, 2024. Mr. Perkins was born on July 10, 1927, in Swampscott, MA, and he peacefully departed this earthly realm at the age of 97.

A Navy veteran, Mr. Perkins served his country with honor during his enlistment from July 23, 1945, to August 6, 1946, attaining the rank of Fireman First Class. After his military service, he pursued higher education, earning an Associate's Degree from University of Massachusetts, before embarking on a career as a Manufacturing Engineer in the Aircraft Engine Manufacturing industry at General Electric.

Throughout his 39 years of dedicated service, Mr. Perkins garnered the respect and admiration of his colleagues, eventually retiring from General Electric in 1987. A proud member of the General Electric Quarter Century Club and the Loyal Order of Moose, he exemplified loyalty and commitment in all facets of his life. He was an avid golfer who was a member of the Gannon golf league for years, he loved the game of golf.  Martin who was fondly referred to as (Old Papa) by his great grandchildren was always the family handyman, taxi driver, private banker, auto repair service, always being haunted by "murphy's law" in his pursuits to repair.  He was a generous and kindhearted man who was always there for his family or anyone else anyone who could use a hand.

Mr. Perkins leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion, survived by his sons, David, Donald, Martin, and his wife Carol.   He is also survived by his grandchildren Krystle Sprei and Nicole Perkins as well as two great grandchildren Daeva and Carter Sprei and many nieces and nephews. Martin was preceded in death by his wife Norma (Lowell) Perkins, his parents Fred Perkins and Elizabeth (Gallant) Perkins, his sons Robert Perkins, Edward Grondin, Elizabeth Perkins, and his daughter in law Christine (Lubas) Perkins, his brothers Charles, Donald, Robert Perkins, and his sister Rita Boccelli. Additionally, Martin leaves behind Nipper his canine companion of 16 years.

A Mass of Christian burial will be held to celebrate the life of Martin Phillips Perkins Sr at the Immaculate Conception Church, 15 Hawthorne Blvd, Salem on September 16, 2024, at 10:00 am. Family, friends, and community members are invited to pay their respects and honor a life well-lived.

As we reflect on his life and achievements, let us remember Martin with reverence and gratitude. He may be gone from his earthly being, but he will live long and forever in all of our hearts and memories. May his soul rest in eternal peace.   Memorial contributions may be made in his memory to the MQOA, Immaculate Conception Church, 158 Federal St.  Salem, MA.  01970.  For additional information or online guest book, call 978-744-0497 or visit www.MurphyFuneralHome.com.  Arrangements are under the direction of the Murphy Funeral Home, 85 Federal St, Salem.