David A. Perry Jr.

David Allen Perry Jr. of Vero Beach, FL passed away at home on Sunday, April 24th at the age of 89, surrounded and guided by his family and loved ones. Born in Cambridge, MA on March 9th,1933, David spent most of his youth and young adult life in Weston, MA, where he loved to play pick-up football and ice hockey. He leaves behind his beloved wife Pamela, along with his adoring daughters Cindy Perry of Vero Beach and Susie von Rosenvinge of Groton, MA. He was predeceased by his son Peter Perry. He also leaves his brother John T Perry, his wife Jenny of Lee, MA, and his cousin, Eloise Kenney. His many loving grandchildren; Katie, her husband Roccou (Rocky) Knowles, Emily, her husband Ross and their daughter Madison Borelli, Sarah Wicks, Peter von Rosenvinge and his wife Maeve, Perry von Rosenvinge and his partner Anne King, all feel the loss of their beloved “Grampy” immensely. Additionally, he leaves behind loving nephews and niece Darren Perry and his wife Kendra of Sudbury, MA, and David and Stephen Krushwitz and Lisa Rea of Anchorage, AK.

David attended Belmont Hill School in Belmont, MA, and was a graduate of Dartmouth College. After graduating, David entered naval flight training school in Pensacola, FL. in 1955 and received his wings as a Marine fighter pilot in 1956. He went on to serve in the Marines for over 20 years, achieving the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.

After receiving his wings, he took his greatest flight of faith yet and married his “long-haired bunkie”, Pamela Wicks. They have been soulmates and best friends in life for over 65 years and built a beautiful and colorful life together.

In 1964, David joined TWA, where he enjoyed a long and distinguished career, going on to become captain of both the L1011 and 747 as well as other aircraft, and eventually enjoyed his role as an instructor pilot. This path allowed him and his family to travel extensively and live around the world. It eventually took him to Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, where he and his family lived for over six years. Upon returning to the States, he went on to fulfill contracts with various other airlines such as Nippon Cargo, and Tower Air. Dave rounded out his career right here in Vero Beach as an instructor Pilot for Piper Air where he cultivated many lifelong friendships with his students and staff.

David relished the time around the dinner table enjoying spirited conversation, card games, an ice-cold mojito or Yuengling, and laughter with his family and friends. An informal gathering in celebration of Dave’s life is planned for Friday, April 29th at 3:00 PM at the family home; 1810 East Sandpointe Place, Vero Beach.

The family would like to thank the VNA, who took expert care of David throughout this process. They would also like to thank Dawn Stephens in particular, whom he loved for her guidance and tender care in his final days.

His infectious laughter and wit will be missed by all who knew and loved him. As David always reminded everyone he knew, “keep the blue side up!”

Arrangements are by Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory, Vero Beach.