Ralph Kenneth Perry ’50

Ken was born in Westminster, Md., Jan. 11, 1928, and died Feb. 27, 2023. He prepared at Mercersburg Academy, where he was salutatorian. At Princeton, he majored in chemical engineering and was elected to Phi Beta Kappa. A member of Campus Club, he lettered in cross-country, and roomed with Armstrong, Buttrey, Hitzrot, and Main. 

In 1957, Ken married Margaret “Garie” Beale. He spent 32 years at Monsanto Corp., 16 years each producing resins and in management. After his retirement from Monsanto at age 58, Ken and Garie’s shared interest in international relations led them to teach English as a second language in China. They spent nine summers engaging with students in more than 200 Chinese classrooms. Always active, Ken played tennis until he was 90.

An outstanding secretary for the Class of 1950 for the past 23 years, Ken was a dedicated Princetonian, avidly following Tiger sports. In 1996, he and Garie visited and ate breakfast in all 32 U.S. towns named Princeton. This led to his 2016 book, Breakfast in Princeton, USA: A Year-Long Odyssey.

Ken was predeceased by their two children, Douglas and Diane. The class extends its condolences to Garie and Ken’s extended family. We share in their loss.