GORHAM – Francis “Frank” H. Perry died on July 14, 2022 at the age of 89. Born in Rumford in September 1932, graduated class of 1952 from Portland High School and in December 1952 he enlisted in the Navy to avoid being drafted into the Army.

During his military career, Frank deployed frequently to Southeast Asia as well as serving two tours in the Vietnam War. He became a Frogman, then member of the Underwater Demolition Team (UDT) before receiving orders to return to San Diego, Calif. to join the newly formed Navy Seals, where he became a Plank Holder for Seal Team One.

Frank held alias names of “Clark Kent”, “PT Perry” and “King of the Eight Count” by his fellow members as he reigned supreme for his PT sessions. After serving 26 years, he retired as a chief petty officer in 1979 and moved his family back to Maine settling on his farm in Durham. Frank enjoyed his retirement as a gentleman farmer, downhill skier, gardener, avid periodical reader and watching his favorite New England sports teams.

Survived by his wife of 55 years, Sandra Perry; his sisters Sally Nappi and Ann Waecker, his brother, John Perry; and his daughters Suzanne Piraino, Kathryn Akerman; and his granddaughter, Astrid Akerman.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the

Maine Veterans’ Homes in Scarborough, or to

K9s on the Front Line

of Portland, Maine.

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