Leland William Perkins was born to Mary Ella and Leland Perkins on November 28, 1939 in Canton, Illinois. Bill Perkins passed away peacefully at Hospice House in Stockton on February 2, 2009. 

Bill is survived by his wife, Teresa Johnson, daughter, Jennipher Perkins of San Francisco, step-children Christina Johnson of San Francisco, Tom Johnson of Newport Beach and Peter Johnson of Manteca, sister and brother-in-law Joe and Marty Blum of Santa Barbra and their three children’s families. 

Bill grew up in Chicago and Evanston, Illinois, and moved to San Francisco after college.  He had a successful career in sales, and worked for Anixter Corporation for 25 years.  Bill married Teresa in 2002, and relocated to Manteca.

Always active in the communities in which he lived, most recently in Manteca Bill was a member of the SPCA, past Chairman of the San Joaquin County Democratic Committee, past President of the Noon Kiwanis, President of the Parkwest Homeowner’s Association, Member of the Board of Directors of CAPs, active participant in many committees for the Manteca Unified School District, member of the California Alliance for Retired Americans, and the Founder of the Manteca Democratic Club.  Bill worked tirelessly for the campaign to elect and re-elect Congressman Jerry McNerney. 

Bill had many interests and knew a lot about a lot of subjects.  He especially loved movies, music, modern art, professional baseball, cycling and politics.  He was an advocate for civil rights and women’s rights.  He was a marathon runner, avid cycler, and bowler. Bill was a kind gentleman who will be missed by many.

A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held Saturday, February 7, 2009, 3 p.m. at P. L. Fry & Son Funeral Home, 290 North Union Road, Manteca. Final resting place is private.