Marty Perkins

Marty Perkins, a steadfast son of Detroit, Michigan, born on May 22, 1939, departed from this world unexpectedly on August 4, 2026, in Grosse Ile, Michigan. His was a life woven deep into the fabric of his family, his friendships, his work, and the simple joys he found in the world around him.

From his earliest days, Marty embodied the resilient spirit of his hometown. His blunt manner was legendary to those who loved him—never one to mince words, he always told it like it was, believing there was little point in anything less than the honest, direct truth. But beneath that strong exterior was immense warmth, and an unwavering willingness to do anything for anybody, no questions asked. To be in Marty's orbit was to know that kindness could be fierce and that loyalty was a promise kept.

A proud Korean War veteran in the U.S. Army, Marty served his country with distinction. After his service, he returned home to chart his own path as an entrepreneur, building and running his own poured concrete company. Marty exemplified the meaning of hard work, never stopping, always fixing, building, and improving; he was the very definition of a super handyman. Perhaps nothing was more emblematic of his skill and perseverance than the vacation house he built himself in Johannesburg, Michigan—a testament to his determination and the joy he took in rolling up his sleeves and creating something from scratch.

Even in leisure, Marty was industrious and caring. He loved animals, especially dogs, taking comfort and joy in their companionship. The cabin “Up North” was more than just a retreat—it was a haven for laughter, reflection, and time shared with loved ones. Marty was also at home with his tight-knit crew at Rocky’s Roadhouse, where camaraderie and stories ran rich; this circle became an extended family to him over the years.

But above all, his greatest accomplishment—his proudest legacy—was the love and devotion he poured into his family. His son, Thomas M. Perkins, was the center of his universe, as were his beloved grandchildren: Sydney (Christian Magallanes), Gillian, and Zack. To his grandchildren, he was a pillar of strength, a source of honest advice, and a reliable fixer of all things, big and small. Their laughter and triumphs were his greatest joy.

Marty is mourned and remembered tenderly by those who survive him: his son, Thomas; his grandchildren, Sydney Perkins (Christian Magallanes), Gillian Perkins, and Zack  Perkins (Sydney Molter); his brother, Butch (Sue); his sister, Louise; and his dear best friends, Randy and Pat Ferguson. He joins in eternal rest his beloved wife, Ann Perkins, whose memory he cherished every day; his parents, George and Ann Perkins; and his siblings, Emily, Joseph, Raymond, and Mary.

The loss of Marty leaves an ache in the hearts of all who knew him, but also a tapestry of memories—of hard-earned wisdom, spontaneous kindness, and the kind of love that asks for nothing in return. His legacy lives on in the integrity he embodied, the family he built, and the world he worked so hard to make just a little bit better.

He will be missed deeply, remembered always, and celebrated forever as a man who gave everything he had to the people and places he cherished.

Cremation arrangements have been entrusted to the Trenton Chapel of the Martenson Family of Funeral Homes located at 3200 West Road, 48183. 

Please visit Marty's online guestbook to share memories and leave condolences for his family.