Stuart "Stu" Richard Perry's Obituary
Stuart “Stu” Richard Perry, 73, of Steilacoom, Washington, passed away at home on January 9, 2026, at home surrounded by his family.
Born in Augusta, Maine, on April 2, 1952, Stu dedicated 22 years to the U.S. Army. He retired with honor as a Sergeant First Class (E-7), having served with distinction as a Military Police Officer. Following his military service, he earned a Bachelor’s Degree from Evergreen State College and pursued a second career as a microbiologist at Washington State University.
Stu’s greatest devotion was to his wife of 52 years, Rumiko Perry. The pair met in Tokyo in 1973 and married in 1974, beginning a global journey together. As a military family, they lived in Georgia, Germany, Japan, Texas, Florida, Virginia, Kwajalein Island, and Maine before finally settling in Washington. Stu’s career provided his three children—Brian, Eric, and Jessica—an adventurous life, from Volksmarching in Germany and celebrating Shichi-Go-San festivals in Japan to snorkeling the reefs of Kwajalein.
An enthusiast of life’s simple and grand pleasures, Stu loved running the Sound to Narrows with his children, riding his motorcycle, and diving in both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. He could often be found reading in the sun, just as his father had, or taking long walks with his beloved dogs, Hanna, Kuma, and Rocky.
Stu is survived by his wife, Rumiko: his children, Brian Perry (Amanda), Eric Perry (Allison), and Jessica Perry (Joel); and his four cherished grandchildren, Eric Jr., Ethan, Odette, and Naomi. His surviving brothers are Dave, Jim and Kerm.
Above all, Stu will be remembered for his kindness. "Thank you" was his mantra and his way of moving through the world. He was a man of deep gratitude who will be profoundly missed by his family, friends, and all who knew him. We love you, Dad.
Regards,
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