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Saturday, June 13, 2026 at 6:37 PM

Gene “Toni” Perfect

Gene “Toni” Perfect

Toni Perfect, age 89, of Empire, MI passed away on Tuesday, May 26, 2026 following a brief battle with cancer.

Toni was born on November 10, 1936, in McGregor, IA to the late Dallas & Iantha Perfect. In his early years, his family moved to Milwaukee, WI, where he graduated in 1954 from Whitefish Bay High School. He later attended the U of M where he studied architecture. On August 10, 1957, he married the love of his life, Edith “Josie” Taylor, and together they raised four boys in Leelanau County, MI. Toni served as the Leelanau County Planning Director for 10 years, starting in 1974. He was the first planning director for the county and excelled at his job.

Beyond work, he was a talented artist and photographer, was an avid reader, and enjoyed nature, especially watching the birds. He was also a devoted Kiwanian member for many years.

Toni will be missed by his wife of 68 years, Edith “Josie” Perfect; sons, Jeffrey Alan Perfect (Kendall Hodder), Scot Gregory Perfect, Kevin Todd Perfect, Sean Christopher Perfect (Patty); grandchildren, Kelsey Perfect, Benjamin (Emma) Perfect, Luke (Hannah) Perfect, Alex (Brad) Perfect; brother, Dave Perfect; sister-inlaw, Mary Catherine Pendall; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Dallas & Iantha (Silence) Perfect; in-laws, Rev. W.C. Taylor & Naomi Taylor; and brother-in-law, David Taylor.

Per Toni’s wishes, cremation will take place and no formal services will be held. Interment will be at Maple Grove Cemetery, Empire, MI. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to the Leelanau Land Conservancy or the American Cancer Society. To leave a message for the family, please visit www. reynolds-jonkhoff.com.