Robert F. Perkins

Robert Franklin Perkins, 75, of Rush County, died Tuesday, Nov. 1, 2005, at his home. Born Oct. 6, 1930, in Walker Township, Rush County, he was the son of the late Elmer and Ethel (Posz) Perkins. He married Hilda Moore on May 28, 1950, and she survives. Other survivors include one daughter, Amelia Beth Perkins of Rush County; two sisters-in-law, Beulah Pruitt of Waldron and Helen Perkins of Rushville; several nieces and nephews; and several cousins. He was preceded in death by one son, Malcolm Blaine Perkins. Mr. Perkins lived in Walker Township all of his life. He initially farmed the family farm with his father and brother, William Perkins. He also helped operate his father?s store, Perkins Electric and Supply in Manilla. Later in his career, he worked as a salesman for Kova, in Greensburg; started Homer Crop Service for Smith Douglas; co-established Perkins Dawson Crop Service in Homer; and was a Northrup King dealer and salesman. He retired in 1985. Mr. Perkins graduated in 1948 in Manilla High School. He was the grandson of Conrad and Louise (Kuhn) Posz and Mr. and Mrs. William D. Perkins and great-grandson of Jehu Perkins, one of the first commissioners of Rush County and who Perkins Street, in Rushville, was named in honor of. Mr. Perkins was an avid reader and historian and actively supported the Homer Art Festival, Future Farmers of America and 4-H Clubs of Walker Township. Graveside services will be at 10 a.m. Thursday in Manilla Cemetery, in Manilla, with the Rev. Dena Vittorio officiating. Carmony-Ewing, Freeman Family Funeral Homes, is handling the arrangements. Online condolences can be sent to www.carmony-ewing.com.