LEWISTON — Ralph R. Perkins Jr., 76, a resident of 208 Broad St., Auburn, passed away Sunday, June 26, at Russell Park Manor.

He was born in Lewiston, Sept. 19, 1934, the only child born to Ralph R. Perkins Sr. and Catherine E. Johnson. Ralph was educated in Auburn schools and graduated from Edward Little High School, Class of 1952.

On June 30, 1956, he married the former Betty J. Seaward. Mr. Perkins was a military veteran having served 23 years in the U.S. Coast Guard until his retirement and honorable discharge in 1979, as a Radioman Chief. A few years later, he went back to school and earned his Associate’s Degree in 1985 from Mid State College. Ralph then worked in the Muskie Archives at Bates College from 1986 until his retirement in 2001 while also serving as part-owner of Perkins Upholstery in Auburn.

He was a member of Sixth Street Congregational Church, the American Legion and The Coast Guard C.W. Operators’ Association. Mr. Perkins was a very loyal and dedicated Mason who was a 50-year member in Day Spring Lodge No. 30 in Hamden, Conn., Rabbonni Lodge No. 150 in Auburn, The Scottish Rite, Androscoggin Square and Compass Club in Auburn and Alice Chapter No. 76 OES in Hamden, Conn. He was also a member of Nickerson Family Association. He was a loving, devoted and hard-working husband, father and grandfather, who will be dearly missed.

He leaves his wife of 55 years, Betty Perkins of Auburn; his daughter, Mary Ann Perkins and her companion, Les Buzzell, of Auburn; and his grandson, Charlie Creamer of Lewiston.

He was predeceased by a daughter, Barbara J. Perkins; a grandson, Christopher M. Stevens; and his parents.

You are invited to share your thoughts, condolences and fond memories with the Perkins family by visiting their online guest book at www.thefortingroupauburn.com.