Obituary of Vondelle Elizabeth Perkins

Vondelle Elizabeth (Wilkins) Perkins was born on August 22, 1939 in Markhamville, NB., a daughter of the late Russell and Olive (Wood) Wilkins and loving wife to Ronald Perkins. Vondelle was an X-Ray Technician by trade and right out of school she worked at the Boston Children's Hospital her first year. She then went on to the Saint John General Hospital for several years followed by her marriage and the beginning of her family life. Once her children were older, Vondelle returned to work for a short time at the Saint John Regional Hospital in the 80's. On June 3, 1961, she married the love of her life, Ronald Perkins, and they spent 55 wonderful years together. An example of happily married in the truest sense, they were the epitome of true love, partnership and togetherness. The first time that Ronald laid eyes on Vondelle, he knew that she was the one. She was a vibrant, independent, young at heart woman. Vondelle was a country girl who loved to be at the beach. Whether it was in a cottage with the kids and grandkids, or just a day of fun at Mispec, New River or Saints Rest, she loved being near the water. Vondelle especially liked to do a little fishing through the brooks in Markhamville as well. Vondelle loved to travel and particularly enjoyed a wonderful trip to Nashville, Tennessee with her sister Joanne and brother-in-law Paul. She was a member of the congregation of St. David's United Church, Rothesay, for 55 years and a member of the Fairvale Community Centre. She loved music, whether it was square dancing with her friends and family, clogging with the Fundy Cloggers, or playing the harmonica, accordion or keyboard, Vondelle always had music in her life. She was also a beautiful quilter and embroiderer. She was known for her yard sales, whether it was hosting them or attending them, she enjoyed them all. She loved bringing home treasures to fix, refinish, reupholster or re-purpose. She could always find a diamond in the rough. Vondelle had a strong connection to Markhamville, and even though she lived in Rothesay; her roots were strong. She wanted to be a giver to her community. She loved to help at the dinners at the Markhamville Hall and could always be counted on for weddings and baby showers. Also, the Perkins family reunions would never have been the same without her cooking. The only thing stronger than her community connection was her family connection. Vondelle always knew what her family and friends needed and would be the first one there to lend a helping hand. She was affectionately known as "Aunt Bonnie" to many of her nieces and nephews in her family. As well as being a loving wife to Ron, she was very devoted to her son Peter and her daughter Michele (David Stephen) and was extremely involved in all aspects of the lives of her 3 precious grandchildren: Caroline, Emma and Patrick Stephen. She loved them so dearly and was so very proud. Vondelle is also survived by her sisters Joanne (Paul) Scott and Joyce (Howard) Ross; her uncle Elmer (Phyllis) Wilkins and several nieces, nephews and extended family. Along with her parents, she was also predeceased by her brother Crandall Wilkins Wife, Mom, Nana, Aunt Bonnie or just simply Vondelle, she has touched the hearts of everyone who knew her and will be sadly missed. Vondelle Elizabeth (Wilkins) Perkins passed away peacefully at the Saint John Regional Hospital on Tuesday, July 19, 2016 surrounded by her loving family. Arrangements have been entrusted to the compassionate care of Wallace Funeral Home, 34 Sunnyside Drive, Sussex, (506-433-1176) By Vondelle’s request, there will be no visitation. A graveside service celebrating her life will be held at Knox United Church Cemetery, Markhamville, on Friday, July 22, 2016 at 1:30 pm followed by a time of fellowship and light refreshment in the Markhamville Hall. All are invited to attend. If you are considering making a memorial donation the family has recommended the Knox United Church or the NB Heart and Stroke Foundation.