Marlene B. Perkins

Marlene Backman Perkins, 85, passed peacefully in Ripon, California while surrounded by her family on 6/5/17. Marlene was born in Salt Lake City, Utah to George S. and Thelma Moore Backman. Marlene was a lifelong member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and attended the Manteca, California Ward at the time of her passing.

She graduated from West High School in Salt Lake in 1949 and embarked upon an outstanding career as an administrative secretary. Marlene worked for financial institutions, legal offices and mining companies throughout the Salt Lake area.

Marlene married Doyle Wilcox Perkins in 1952 and together they raised a family.

In 1971, Marlene and Doyle moved to California where Marlene continued her career as a legal secretary in San Jose and Folsom California. In 1976, Marlene went to work for the California Franchise Tax Board, eventually rising to become the executive secretary to the Director of the Board.

During their journey through life, Doyle and Marlene owned and operated Miller’s Auto Parts in Elk Grove CA, operating out of the 1880’s Oddfellow’s Building in historic Elk Grove. A tragic fire destroyed the building and business in 1992. Together, Doyle and Marlene rebuilt the business and historic hall. It still stands to this day.

Upon retirement Marlene and Doyle returned to Salt Lake to care for Doyle’s disabled sister. They would eventually move to St. George, Utah to enjoy their golden years while dedicating their time at the St. George Temple. In 2015 they moved to Ripon California to be close to the comfort of family.

Marlene was a loving and devoted mother and grandmother. She raised three sons who would bless her with 11 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. Marlene was further blessed to see all of her adult grandchildren receive college degrees.

Marlene was preceded in death by her parents, and by one grandchild, Madison. She is survived by her husband of 64 years Doyle, her sister Edith (Richard) Berrett of Dammeron Valley Utah, her sons Bryce (Marcia) of Ripon CA, Mark (Debbie) of Placerville CA, Keith (Kaye) of Selma OR, 10 grandchildren 11 great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

The Perkins family wishes to extend its sincere gratitude to the staff of Bethany Home in Ripon CA for their thoughtful care in Marlene’s final days.

Deegan Funeral Chapel in Ripon CA will provide the arrangements for Marlene’s funeral services. A funeral service will be held at Deegan on 6/14/17 at 10:30 am.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations are made to Pets and Pals, LDS Mission Services or Bethany Home in Ripon CA. 

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