Robert “Bert” Hunter Perry
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Bert. Born to James and Lillian Perry in Belfast Northern Ireland in 1948. Bert came to Whitehorse from Belfast in 1954 with his mother Lil, and older brother Jim to be reunited with his father, Jim (Sr) who was a truck driver for United Keno Hill, later Cassiar Asbestos Corp. and finally with Clinton Creek. Bert grew up and lived most of his life in Whitehorse and married his high school sweetheart Patricia (nee) Swanson. Their son Hunter currently lives in Whitehorse. After retirement Bert and Pat bought a home and moved to Faro to enjoy the peace and quiet of the area. Both Pat and he along with their dogs, loved camping and Faro was the perfect spot for them to live out their final years.
Bert is predeceased by his wife Pat, his parents Jim and Lil and father-in-law George Swanson. His mother-in-law Laura Swanson is currently living in Ontario. Bert was a very athletic, energetic fun loving guy. Following a stint at University of Alaska, where he played hockey with the likes of Benny Sheardown, Dan Lang, Doug Graham, Dan Sheardown, and Ken Jones, Bert followed a career in finance and eventually retired as the Director of Economic Development for the Yukon. In addition, Bert was , for a period of time, an active consultant for Kwanlin Dun First Nation.
Bert will be missed by many relatives and friends. Hunter, his son, who was always there for his Dad, brother Jim (Lorraine) Bucky and Shirley Koebky who gave him so much love and support especially in his final years, Janice (Alan) Vance, Donaghadee, N/Ireland, Ronnie (Irene), Nickell, Geraldine Whyte, Belfast, N/Ireland and his many second cousins from the “sawd”. Long time family friends Betty, Ed (deceased) Schiffkorn, Michele (Tim) Hansen, Tania (Jeff) Luehmann, Carson Schiffkorn Bert was a very special Uncle to Ryan (Elizabeth) Michael (Susannah) and he was loved and entertained by Lily, Claire, Cooper and Tommy.
Bert’s battled a series of illnesses in his final years but valiantly fought to live another day. During the last three years Bert moved into the Thomson Center in Whitehorse where he was treated royally by the nurses and staff. We cannot say enough about care and understanding given to Bert by Unit #4. A very special ‘Thank You” to Dr. Blaker, in her role and compassion for Bert’s needs as the care team manager for Bert and to Dr. Quong who always took the time to “check in” on Bert.
There will be a private gathering by family members later on in the summer to spread Bert and Pat’s ashes in a “very special” camp spot.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Bert’s memory to a charity of your choice.
