Ryan David “Papa Perkins” Perkins, 42, of Austin, Texas, died May 15, 2021, in Austin, Texas. Mr. Perkins graduated from Fox High School in 1997 and graduated as valedictorian in 1998 from the University Technical Institute in Glendale Heights, Ill. He earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Missouri and went on to work for ERB Construction as a diesel mechanic and made the transition to NPK Construction as a district manager. He enjoyed building and fixing things, and loved traveling, snowboarding and all outdoor activities. Born Nov. 8, 1978, in Columbia, he was the son of Kathy Snyder Rickermann and the late Donald J. Perkins Jr.
In addition to his mother, he is survived by his wife: Melissa of Austin; a brother: Rob (Yara) Rickermann; a sister: Shaina (Kevin "Boomer") Rickermann Gutknecht; his grandmother: Sherry Christiansen; two aunts: Pam Bailey and Janet Musick; an uncle: Rick Perkins; a niece and nephew: Gavin and Paige; and the Luaders family.
He was preceded in death by three grandparents: Richard Snyder, Donald J. (Juanita) Perkins Sr. and Marjorie Weltig.
A celebration of life is scheduled from 5-9 p.m. Sunday, July 11, at Nine Mile Garden, 9375 Gravois Road, in Affton. Memorials may be made to AFSP.org.