Habitat for Humanity-Clinton County mourns the loss of one of our most dedicated and beloved volunteers. Lennis “Lenny” Perkins—known fondly as “Perk” to family and friends—passed away on March 25, 2025, at the age of 92.
Lenny was a familiar and cherished figure in Wilmington and the surrounding communities, recognized for his unwavering commitment to his family, friends, and neighbors. Born in 1932 and raised on a farm in Nicholsville, Ohio, Lenny learned early the values of hard work, integrity, and community. His hands knew their way around both a tractor and power tools.
Lenny came to Wilmington to attend Wilmington College, where he majored in Engineering Management—a field that would guide his 34-year career with Cincinnati Milacron. Later, he expanded his horizons into real estate, earning his license and starting the Berlin Acres Housing Development before retiring in 2011.
Whether gathering with his fraternity brothers, reconnecting with former coworkers, or hitting the golf course with friends, Lenny’s warm presence was hard to miss. It was often said, “Perk never met a stranger.” No matter where he traveled, he always seemed to know someone—or quickly made a new friend.
Lenny’s journey with Habitat for Humanity-Clinton County began with a “swinging a hammer” on the job site, but his true passion was connecting with people. His communication skills and deep local roots made him an invaluable fundraiser for Habitat and many other nonprofit causes. In 2017, at age 85, he was named Habitat for Humanity Volunteer of the Year for the State of Ohio. His boundless energy earned him the “Energizer Bunny Award” at one of our annual Fall Harvest Appreciation Dinners—a fitting tribute from the many other volunteers who admired his enthusiasm and drive.
A regular presence at local businesses—and a familiar face at Kroger—Lenny made it his mission to secure the resources needed to build homes for Habitat’s partner families. His efforts helped raise funds for building materials for homes that volunteers and families constructed together, homes repaid through interest-free loans.
Pictured: Wendell Compton (L) and Lenny Perkins (R) working on the job site May 22, 2010.
