George “Joe” Perkins passed away on March 10 in Redlands.

He was born in 1932 in Provo, Utah, and his family moved to Southern California when he was two. After finishing school, he played semi-pro, fast-pitch softball and worked as a disassembler for Pacific Airmotive before entering the Army in 1952 during the Korean Conflict.

He began his first career as a cosmetologist, moving from that after 15 years to managing an equestrian center. He retired when he and Cindy, his wife of 43 years, moved to Mariposa.

He loved to play golf, and travel in his motor home. He had a story for every occasion, usually involving his younger years, and had a special affinity for all animals.

Joe was “Papa” to his grandchildren and greatgrandchildren and loved being close to them as they grew up. He is survived by his wife, Cindy; daughter, Kathy Perkins and her sons Jon and Ben; daughter, Jody Stanners and her husband Al and their children, Kynan, Kyle, Kelsie and Kristyn and her husband James Steed; son, Ted and his wife, Tracy, and their children, Rose and Elysse; and son, Tim and his children, Bryana and Josh; and two great-grandchildren, Makaila and Milly.

A memorial service will be held Friday, March 26 at 3 p.m. at the LDS Church in Mariposa. In lieu of flowers, remembrances can be sent to the SPCA.