Kenneth Perko

Kenneth Dale Perko, age 84, a man whose life was a tapestry woven with kindness, steadfast devotion, and a love for the simple joys, passed away peacefully on May 28, 2026, at his residence, surrounded by his beloved family. Born on May 26, 1942, in Indianapolis, Indiana, Ken’s journey through life was marked by a gentle spirit and an open heart, touching everyone he encountered with warmth and genuine care.

A proud 1960 graduate of Freetown High School, Ken carried the values instilled in him throughout his life. His faith as a Christian was a quiet but powerful beacon, guiding his actions and his relationships. He was sweet, friendly, kind, and remarkably laid back—a man who never met a stranger, whose conversations brightened rooms and made each person feel seen, heard, and important.

Ken’s career was built upon dedication and responsibility, notably working for several years in Facilities Maintenance at Cummings until his retirement in 1995. Yet it was beyond his work where his true passions flourished. A passionate collector, Ken found delight in the miniature world of die cast model cars. His interests extended to the thrill of fishing, the speed of go-carts, the roar of motorcycles, and the excitement of car shows, and had his own 1948 show truck.

When it came to basketball, Ken’s love was profound and enduring—especially for Indiana University’s men’s basketball team. His enthusiasm was infectious, and teaching his grandchildren the nuances of the game was a treasured pastime, weaving bonds that will endure fondly in memory.

Ken’s charisma was a blend of classic influences, from being an admirer of Elvis Presley to holding a special fondness for James Dean, icons that echoed his own blend of charm and timeless spirit.

He is survived by those who loved him most, his wife of 65 years, Judy Williams Perko of Seymour, Indiana; his son Brian Perko and his wife Shana of Seymour; his brother John “Rick” Perko of Freetown; his sister Sandy Adams of Trafalgar; and his grandchildren Ashley Dembo with her husband Cory, and Cody Perko. Their lives are richer for his presence, and their hearts heavy with his loss.

Kenneth was preceded in death by his father John H. Perko, mother Mary Certalic Perko and daughter Denise Anne Perko, names that remain tenderly in the family’s thoughts.

Family and friends will gather to honor and celebrate Ken’s life at the Christensen Family Funeral Home – Winklepleck Chapel, located at 320 N. High Street, Brownstown, IN 47220. The visitation will be held on Thursday June 4, 2026, from 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM, with a second visitation on Friday June 5 from 11:00 AM until 1:00 PM. The funeral service will begin at 1:00 PM on Friday June 5, followed by a burial at Freetown Cemetery at 7000 Indiana 135, Freetown, IN.

Kenneth Dale Perko’s life was a gentle melody—one that played softly but surely, leaving echoes of kindness, passion, and a welcoming spirit. He taught us that every person is worthy of kindness, every moment holds joy, and every heart touched is never forgotten. With his passing, we say goodbye to a true friend, a devoted family man, and a soul whose legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.

The family requests that memorial donations be directed to Jackson County Humane Society in his honor.

Friends are invited to leave condolence messages for the family at www.christensenfamilyfuneral.com.

Daniel and Betsy Christensen have been entrusted with the arrangements.