Peter Perkins of Newtown, Connecticut, a local business owner and accomplished triathlete, died on June 7, 2017, following a multi-year battle with ALS. Peter Perkins was a longtime partner in and manager of Chuck’s Steak House in Danbury. He was also well-known throughout Connecticut and New England as a fiercely talented triathlete who competed in hundreds of triathlons, running races and cycling events ranging from 5Ks to Ironman-distance triathlons around the country. It was widely known that if Peter showed up at a race, he was likely to win his age group, often by wide margins. Peter was also a successful race director, having created and directed Chuck’s East Coast Triathlon, one of New England’s premier triathlons during the 80s and 90s. This race was a major fundraiser for the local chapter of the American Red Cross.
Beyond triathlon and cycling, Peter was a food and wine lover whose passion contributed to the continued success, growth and longevity of Chuck’s Steak House. His refined palate, management skills and warm hospitality helped make Chuck’s the popular Danbury dining destination it remains today after 44 years.
Peter was born in Albany, New York, in on September 14, 1950, and was the son of the late Arthur A. Perkins and Maryann Vadney. He made southwestern Connecticut his home for the past 50 years. He graduated from Christian Brother's Academy in 1968 and from Western Connecticut State University in 1973 and traveled extensively around the world before settling down in Newtown. He is survived by two siblings Mary Beth Horowitz and her husband Mike and Frederick Perkins, all of Albany, New York, as well as his nieces Jenny Horowitz and Stephanie Horowitz. He is also survived by his beloved yellow lab Luna, who never left his side and who will be well-loved and cared for in her new home. Peter also leaves behind a huge circle of friends from the triathlon and restaurant community. A Memorial Service to celebrate Peter’s life will be held on Wednesday, June 14, 2017, at 7 PM at Honan Funeral Home, 58 Main Street, Newtown, Connecticut, Friends may call Wednesday from 4:00pm to 7:00pm prior to the service. Those who wish to make contributions in Peter’s memory can do so with the ALS Association Connecticut Chapter, 4 Oxford Road, Milford, Ct 06460