James Perkins

On December 10, 2025, James C. Perkins (Perk), age 78, passed away peacefully in his home with his wife and children by his side. Perk was born in Beloit, Wisconsin on June 22nd, 1947, one of nine children to Beverly (Schmale) and Harold Perkins. A graduate of Beloit Catholic High School, Perk went on to receive his college degree from University of Wisconsin – Whitewater. He spent his career in high school education, beginning at St. Edward Central Catholic High School where he held many roles for 22 years. As Athletic Director, he oversaw programs that grew from six interscholastic sports to 17 and as golf coach, he led the golf team to their first and only state championship in 1981. Perk went on to teach math and coach golf at Streamwood High School and Bartlett High School. Perk was inducted into the Elgin Sports Hall of Fame, St. Edward Sports Hall of Fame, and Illinois Sports Hall of Fame.

Perk selflessly helped others throughout his life. He was a handy man and could readily make repairs in the home. He also enjoyed the outdoors — golfing, fishing, and gardening. He also loved attending Cubs and Badger games as well as watching Da Bears.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Peter, his father- and mother-in-law William and Kathleen Dolan, and his sister-in-law Maureen Churchill. He is survived by his wife Patricia Perkins (Dolan), his two children, Brennan Perkins (Marcie) and Anne Funke (Aaron), as well as grandchildren Emmeline and Thea Funke. In addition, he is survived by sisters Penny Hansen (Ed), Janie Dietsch (Bill), Sara and Lynn Perkins, brothers Joe (Paula), David (Barb) and Patrick (Felicia) Perkins, sisters-in-law Susi Wahlrab, Mary Eck (Jay), Dr. Donna Dolan (Dr. Abel Galaviz), and many nieces and nephews. 

A visitation at 9am followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10am will take place on Monday, December 29th at St. Mary Catholic Church of Huntley, 10307 Dundee-Huntley Rd, Huntley, IL 60142. 

Donations in Perk’s memory can be made to the Elgin Sports Hall of Fame Foundation or St. Edward Central Catholic High School.

Arrangements entrusted to Chicagoland Cremation Options, Schiller Park, IL