Richard B. Perkins Jr., 60

Richard Bruce Perkins Jr., 60, of Center Barnstead, passed away suddenly while working in his yard on June 5. His beloved dog Rummy was by his side. 

Richard is predeceased by his parents, Richard Bruce Perkins Sr. and Ann Marie Perkins. Rich graduated from Nauset Regional High School in Eastham, Massachusetts, in 1982. He continued his education at Massachusetts Maritime Academy, graduating with a bachelor of science degree in marine engineering in 1986.                

Upon his graduation Rich accepted a commission in the Navy as an ensign, before continuing his career in the Merchant Marine. He went on to become a chief engineer, licensed for both diesel and steam engines. He enjoyed traveling the world to foreign ports and seeing other cultures. Rich wrapped up his career on land working as an engineer for the Falmouth Water Department on Cape Cod, and eventually building his dream home and retiring to New Hampshire.               

Richard is survived by his two brothers, Joseph P. Perkins and his partner Jeff Sage of Pittsburg, NH, and Mark T. Perkins and his wife Kristin Perkins of Brewster, Massachusetts. Rich is further survived by his niece and three nephews, Alexander Perkins and Gabrielle Perkins, son and daughter of Mark Perkins and Kristin Perkins, and William Perkins and Ryan Perkins, sons of Joseph Perkins. He also leaves behind his grand-nephew Karl Thomas Eiler, son of Gabrielle Perkins and her fiancé Karl Francis Eiler, and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.               

Rich loved the water his whole life, everything about it — swimming, fishing, sailing, scuba diving and spending his career on it. He even built his retirement home on a lake. He enjoyed gardening and cooking. He was an avid Patriots fan and would often go to games with his father. But mostly, he loved family and friends. He was known for his long phone calls to relatives, often entailing a story of some sort. 

Visitation will be held at Nickerson Funeral Home in Orleans, Massachusetts, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Wednesday, June 19, followed by a graveside service at Brewster Cemetery. 

Rich enjoyed donating to charities, and was always willing to help someone if he could. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, Tunnel to Towers Foundation or a charity of one’s choice. For online condolences, visit nickersonfunerals.com.