William R. (Bill) Perschke, 68 was received into the loving arms of our Lord and Savior on May 24th, 2024, after a courageous journey following a recent spinal cord injury.
He was born September 13, 1955, in New Castle Pennsylvania to the late Norman L. and Edice J, Harlan Perschke. Bill was raised in Warren and was a 1973 graduate of Warren Area High School. Following high school, he graduated with an associate degree in electrical engineering from the Pennsylvania College of Technology. Bill was employed for much of his career as a Quality Control Supervisor for several corporations in N.Y. State and later obtained his CDL and drove semi tractor trailer for American Petroleum and several other local companies. Bill attended the Scandia Covenant Church and was a faithful servant of our Lord. An avid outdoorsman, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, archery, 4-wheeling, horseback trail riding, exploring God’s country on his Harley Davidson motorcycles, gardening, canning vegetables, and playing guitar. He was a proud member of the National Rifle Association, Pine Grove Rod & Gun Club, and a participant at Corry Rod & Gun Club.
Settling in Scandia Pa in 1991, Bill began designing and constructing a horse stable for himself, his wife and daughter which they named “Indian Ridge Stables.” Bill was very humbled & grateful of his ability to provide for his family in so many ways. He was actively involved for many years in the local Y Bar U saddle club and was heavily supportive of various 4H groups throughout the years. Making learning and teaching joyful were talents Bill was known to convey to those of all ages. Bill encouraged and reflected hands on involvement in areas of interest and for several decades devoted his time and skills to the Warren Co. Fair. From helping his father in the construction of fair buildings in his youth, to later setting up and handling the PA systems, to most recently assisting with food preparation in various areas of the fair. Bill’s talent and passion for cooking were showcased in the various organizations in which he was involved. If there was a kitchen, you could likely find Bill there. Creating dishes without recipes was something he became known for and was one of his favorite past times. Bill shared this knowledge with anyone who had shown an interest and was extremely happy to do so. He was well known for making people feel at ease and had respect and kindness to extend to all. His friends and family are left with many great memories as he had a way of pouring his heart into anything and everything he did.
Bill was most proud of his Granddaughter Alexis who affectionately referred to him as “Papa Bill”. Together they enjoyed many things including cooking, auctions, visiting & interacting within the Amish community, feeding & learning about baby cows, 4-wheeling and horse activities. He was extraordinarily proud of her academic accomplishments as well as her equestrian achievements. Bill’s proudest moments were attending Alexis’ military graduation ceremonies and seeing her represent the United States Army as recognized Iron Soldier. Bill had sincere appreciation for all those who served.
Bill leaves a legacy of compassion governed by high moral standing, enveloped in deep affection and empathy, and spread with unyielding generosity that will be carried on by all those who loved him. Left to carry on this legacy & cherish these memories are his wife of 38 years Shelley (Ciprich) Perschke, Daughter Carrie (Michael) Morrissey, Warren Pa., Granddaughter Alexis Christensen Eller (Kyle) (Augusta, GA), sisters’ Lynda Slocum (Warren, Pa) Barbara Wilson (Warren, Pa) Brothers’ Donald (Maureen) Perschke (Bradford, Pa), Steve (Catherine) Perschke (Athens, GA). Several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his two brothers in law, Glenn L. Slocum and Douglas P. Wilson.
Friends may call at the Donald E. Lewis Funeral Home Inc., 304 East St., Warren, PA, on Thursday May 30, 2024, from 2:00 to 4:00 pm. Funeral services will follow at 4:00 pm in the funeral home with the Rev. Aaron Reinard, pastor of Scandia Covenant Church, officiating. Burial will be in Scandia Cemetery. Those wishing to place memorials may do so through the Warren Public Library Association, 205 Market St., Warren, PA 16365 or a library of choice. E-mail condolences may be sent by visiting www.lewisfuneralhomeinc.com.