Eugene Leon Perry

Eugene Leon Perry, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend, passed away peacefully after his hard-fought battle with cancer. Born on May 28, 1952, Eugene lived a life marked by strength and a deep connection to both people and animals, especially horses, which were never far from his stories or his heart.

Eugene was the devoted husband of Bonnie Perry, the love of his life, with whom he shared the past 24 cherished years. Together they built a life rooted in love, laughter, and unwavering support.

He is a proud father to Doug (Jackie), Dean (Allison), Andrew (Tasha), Keith, and Amy, as well as a loving bonus dad to Tina and Peggy, and bonus father-in-law to Leroy. He is a grandfather many times over — blessed with 13 grandchildren, several bonus grandkids, and great-grandchildren who brought him endless joy and pride. Eugene’s legacy lives on in each of them, carried forward in stories, values, and his trademark grit.

A hardworking man all his life, Eugene dedicated nearly 30 years to the Soo Line Railroad, traveling the tracks from town to town. His time on the railroad gave him a deep sense of purpose and a collection of stories he was always ready to share, often with a twinkle in his eye and a laugh at the ready.

Eugene’s bond with animals only deepened as he grew older, and horses remained a central part of his identity. Whether driving, caring for them, or simply sharing tales of his equine adventures, Eugene and horses were inseparable in memory and spirit.

While he was famously independent — never one to be told what to do — those who knew him well also witnessed his softening over time. His strength remained, but it was paired with a tenderness that revealed his love and loyalty in quiet, profound ways.

While his passing leaves a deep void, his stories, values, and legacy of resilience and love will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

A special thank you to his care team and to St. Croix hospice for their support in his final days.

He will be missed more than words can express, and remembered always — whether through the sound of a train in the distance or the sight of a horse grazing in the field.