Our treasured Rolynn Frank Perri (Porky), 72, passed away Sunday, January 9, 2022. He was born June 18, 1949 in Price, Utah to Anthony and Ann Svetich Perri. Porky grew up on the family farm in Spring Glen, Utah with his brother, Tony and sister, Pam. He loved spending time with his beloved grandpa who was a source of long-lasting memories. During his high school years, Porky worked as a mechanic where he cultivated his interests in tinkering, problem solving and repairing.
In 1968, Rolynn met and married Roxann Fairbanks (Forbush). They had two children, RJ and Courtney, followed by five grandchildren and six great-grandchildren, who lovingly named him “Grandpa Choo Choo.” The same year, Rolynn was hired as a locomotive engineer for the Denver & Rio Grande Railroad, which later became Union Pacific. After 43 years, Rolynn retired yet often commented how badly he missed being on the train. He frequently said, “I was a lucky man to operate a train for a living. I loved my job!”
In 2003, Rolynn met Cherilyn Goddard who was the woman he “cherished.” They had 18 years of fun, adventures and hard work. They were an unlikely pair but fit like a glove.
Rolynn loved being on the golf course enjoying time with his railroad buddies. He was a decent golfer; however, it was never about the game, but rather the comradery. Rolynn’s true joy was construction, building, remodeling and anything that had to do with tools. Everyone knew that Rolynn had a tool—if not one, then five, to complete any project. Rolynn was truly a loving man who had a gruff exterior but underneath a tender, loving heart. He adored his Cher, his family and countless friends. He would truly do anything for anyone and always put others first.
Preceded in death by his parents and brother, Tony Perri Jr.
Survived by Cherilyn Goddard; son, RJ Perri (Mary); daughter, Courtney Krantz; five grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, sister, Pam (Eugene) Holdaway; nieces, nephew, cousins and countless dear friends.
A Vigil Service will be Friday, January 14, 2022, 1:00 p.m., at Saint Vincent de Paul Catholic Church in Holladay where the family will receive friends one hour prior to service. Immediately following the Vigil Service a reception will be held in “Porky’s” memory. Funeral Mass will be celebrated Saturday, January 15, 2022, 11:00 a.m., at St. Anthony Catholic Church in Helper where the family will receive friends one hour prior to Mass. Committal service, Mt. View Cemetery in Helper, Utah. Arrangements entrusted to Mitchell Funeral Home of Price where friends are always welcome daily and may share memories of “Porky” online at www.mitchellfuneralhome.net