He was a man large in stature that was matched by his giant heart. His happy countenance and compassionate nature inspired not only members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, but all he met and ministered to throughout the world. I knew him well and loved him dearly. – Sen. Orrin Hatch
SALT LAKE CITY — Elder L. Tom Perry's son remembered him Saturday for his ability to connect with anyone.
“He had this common touch and he was as comfortable with the common man as presidents and rulers and treated them all pretty much the same and had a way of relating to them and connecting with them that's just profound,” Lee Perry said in a statement released by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
“I think he’ll be remembered as a champion of the family,” Lee Perry added.
Dignitaries also expressed their feelings for Elder Perry:
Gov. Gary R. Herbert said, "Elder Perry was a great man, a friend and a tremendous leader. His friendly smile and optimism always encouraged everyone he met, including me, to try a little harder, to stand a little taller and to be a little better. He loved God and he loved all of God’s children. We need more people like him."
Utah Democratic Party Chairman Peter Corroon said, "While he never wavered in his beliefs, Elder Perry was deeply committed to making Utah a welcoming home for all. His optimism, his dedication to the causes about which he was passionate, and his unwavering spirit will be remembered."
"It has been said that ideas go booming through the world like cannons," said Sen. Mike Lee, R-Utah. "Elder Perry’s booming voice carried his words far and wide, but it was his spiritual strength and positive perspective that sent his cherished ideas on faith, family and freedom booming to the four corners of world and into the hearts of millions."
"He was a man large in stature that was matched by his giant heart," said Sen. Orrin Hatch, R-Utah. "His happy countenance and compassionate nature inspired not only members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, but all he met and ministered to throughout the world. I knew him well and loved him dearly."
"He was a leader who had deep conviction in his faith and dedication to his family," said Archbishop John C. Wester. "His warmth and common touch were always apparent and made him a much-loved figure in Utah and throughout the world. We recently had the opportunity to honor him and his wife, Sister Barbara Perry, as humanitarians at the Catholic Community Services of Utah awards dinner in November. His joyful and gracious presence will be missed."
Salt Lake Chamber President and CEO Lane Beattie said, "Elder Perry was a uniquely talented individual. Not only has he strengthened the spirituality of many within our community, but he has also provided a major example of a successful businessman. What a great example he was for his wonderful ability to teach and live measured principles."
Email: twalch@deseretnews.com