Gwendolyn Christine Perrin's Obituary
Gwendolyn Christine Perrin was born on March 29, 1931, in Tucson, AZ, and passed on February 10, 2018, aged 86.
She was the daughter of Clarence V. Perrin, a prominent attorney, and Clara Bovee, a UA graduate and Tucson teacher. Her siblings were Marjorie (Long), Eileen (Siek), and Clinton.
Gwen attended local schools near her family home near Stone and Speedway, and graduated from Tucson High School in 1949. She had a strong motivation to attend St. Mary’s Hospital nursing school, but was re-directed by her father. However, she maintained a life-long interest in medical issues, both in regard to herself, family, and pets. She would frequently attend or be present at the time of surgical procedures… she had considerable inherited “closet intelligence”.
Gwen also had a life-long interest in animals, including horses and dogs, which led, in earlier years, to employment at the Diamond-X Feed and Supply in Trail Dust Town. She was later employed at Grant Road Lumber and at her brother-in-law’s orchard near Cochise… She belonged to a dog club and spent many years, from the 1950’s, training and entering dogs in contests, and winning awards. She paid great attention to their care and welfare.
She was also highly talented stained glass artist, since the 1960’s or 70’s, and won many blue ribbons for her work at state fairs. Her family was also favored with many pieces of artwork, large and small.
Gwen was also an avid accumulator of collectable items, which she would store, display, and sell at frequent events.
Gwen was always extremely independent by nature, and largely made her own rules, not wanting to be held sway by others, however, in spite of this, she did not let this independence infringe on the rights of others.
Gwen never married, but had a lifetime support of a loving and extended family and many friends, especially in early years. Her two sisters were two of her best friends. She was a loyal participant in family events and a good sport with the tom-foolery. She was compassionate, again, in regard to family and friends, and would do anything she could for them, all the while with few material or financial resources. In sum, Gwen was an advanced person, without having the material trappings of success.
Gwen was preceded in transition by her parents, two sisters, a brother, and two brother-in-law’s. She is survived by eight nephews and nieces and their numerous children. Evergreen Cemetery will be her final resting place, near passed loved-ones.
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