George Arthur Perry

George Arthur Perry, age 80, of Wautoma, passed away peacefully at his home on March 2, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

George was born on January 3, 1946, in Mt. Morris, the son of Francis and Florence (Palm) Perry. In February of 1963, he enlisted in the United States Army, proudly serving his country until July of 1971. He was part of the Artillery–Air Defense unit and worked as an Electronic Maintenance Specialist, attaining the rank of Staff Sergeant at the time of his discharge. During his military service, George received several honors, including the Good Conduct Medal, Expert Marksman Badge with M1 Rifle, and the Air Defense Missile Badge. He spent six years stationed in Germany, where he worked on Nike-Hercules missile systems.

Following his honorable discharge, George returned home to Wild Rose and began his career with the Village of Wild Rose as a Wastewater Treatment Operator. He dedicated many years of service to the Village until his retirement.

In April 1976, George married the love of his life, Maureen (Hawley) Perry. Together they built a life focused on family, hard work, and the land they loved. George was a lifelong farmer, early on a dairy farmer and later beef cattle, caring for many animals on the farm over the years. He enjoyed working in the fields, tending his garden, and providing for his family — simple, steady work that reflected who he was. In his spare time, George enjoyed fishing, woodworking, and watching football and golf. He was always willing to lend a helping hand, especially to family, and loved helping with home improvement projects, generously sharing his time and skills.

George is survived by his loving wife, Maureen; his children, George (Nicole) Perry of Crystal Lake, IL; Glenn (Jaclyn) Perry of Oregon; Ina (Ben) Rader of Theresa; and Anna (Eric) Cooper of Belleville; and his grandchildren, Ava, Devyn, and Everly Perry; Colin Perry; Ethan and William Rader; and Josephine Cooper. He is also survived by his sisters, Pat Hassmann of Texas; Susan (Max) Rios of Appleton; Jean (Dale) Armstrong of Wautoma; and Carol (Denny) Lauer of Junction City; his brother, Fran (Linda) Perry of Wautoma; brothers-in-law, Boyd Simonson of Waupaca, Wayne Lauer of Plainfield, and Ralph Coerper of Almond; along with many cousins, nieces, nephews, other relatives, and dear friends.

George was preceded in death by his parents, Francis and Florence Perry; his sisters, Nancy West, Jane Simonson, Linda Lauer, and Kathie Coerper; his parents-in-law, Bill and Inez Hawley; his sister-in-law, Annie Kruschke; and his brothers-in-law, Eugene West and John Hassmann.

A memorial service will be held at 11:30AM at West Holden Lutheran Church on Saturday, March 21, 2026 with Military Honors to follow. The family will greet relatives and friends at church from 9:30AM until the time of services at 11:30AM.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a gift in George Perry’s memory to the ThedaCare Family of Foundations Caring Hearts Program or the Cancer Care Fund at www.thedacare.org/donate or by check.