TRIBUTES have been
paid to a dedicated conservationist and family man.
Leonard Anthony Perry, known as Tony, died at his home in Connah’s Quay on January 12, aged 76.
A relation of Fred Perry, the last British tennis player to win the Wimbledon men’s singles title, Mr Perry became a well-known face in Flintshire through his work to protect the region’s wildlife.
Mr Perry set up the Deeside Urban Wildlife group, now known as New Wildlife, fighting to ensure the environment and wildlife was protected.
His wife Pip, a fellow environmental campaigner who was awarded an MBE for services to the natural environment in 2008, said: “It was a huge passion of his.
“I hope he has left a legacy. I have received so many messages since Tony died which is so nice.
“People may take their environment for granted but Tony worked hard to ensure it would still be there for them to enjoy.”
Mr Perry was originally from Hazel Grove, Stockport, near to where Fred Perry hailed from.
Although the pair did not know each other, Mr Perry considered being a third cousin of the Wimbledon champion a claim to fame.
He attended school with Pip, announcing as a young boy that he wanted to marry her when he grew up.
He kept his promise and wed his childhood sweetheart in February 1966, going on to be married for almost 47 years.
Giving the eulogy talk at his funeral, Tony’s brother-in-law and best man Bill Gee said: “From that day on he has always been a devoted husband, a caring family man and a good friend.”
Mr Perry was called up for National Service aged 20, serving in the Army for 25 years after joining the Horse Guards, and often being based overseas.
He rode in the cavalry on many state occasions, including the funeral of Winston Churchill in January 1965. His work led to him meeting the Royal Family and being invited to a Christmas party at Clarence House.
After leaving the Army, Mr Perry and his family settled in Connah’s Quay and he went back into his decorating business, before working at Point of Ayr during the building of the oil terminal.
As well as his conservation passion, Mr Perry served as a school governor at Wepre Lane School, Connah’s Quay.
Mr Perry’s funeral was held at Pentrebychan Crematorium, Wrexham, last Wednesday.
He leaves three daughters Gabrielle, Naomi and Rebeccah, six grandchildren and a baby great-grandson Callum, born in November.
Rhys Owen, Mr Perry’s grandson and Callum’s father, said: “My grandad was a brilliant man who had a great sense of humour.
“He always had time to give us advice or share a joke.
“I know he was a popular man who lived a happy, packed and fulfilled life.”