Perry Walter Kokotailo

Jey lin 116w

Gillian Kaye memory of Dad

Perry lit up the halls of Forest Hills. He was always smiling, never complained and always looked for ways to make everyone’s day brighter. Nothing brought him more joy than bringing a smile to someone elses face. I feel lucky to have called him a friend.

Jey lin 116w

Liz Greer memory of Dad

What a lovely tribute you have written to capture such a wonderful spirit. I am lucky enough to have worked alongside Perry at FHS for many years. He was one of those rare individuals who made everyone feel important and cared for, truly taking an interest in those around him. He made our school feel like family. I would hesitate to ask Perry to help with a task - not because he would ever say no, but because I knew he would drop whatever he was currently working on to help me. He was the most generous of spirits. In fact, I entered Perry into a best school custodian contest a few years back. The idea was to celebrate those who go above and beyond to make their schools special places. While he may not have won, we certainly did. I am glad that Perry got to hear how much he has meant to all of us at his recent retirement celebration. Our hallways and classrooms will miss the sound of his laugh, his visits and the twinkle in his eye. Perry not only embraced the spirit of Christmas, decorating our staff room on his own time each season, he was the living embodiment of it all year round. I am honored to have known him and called him friend.

Jey lin 116w

Michael Weston memory of dad

I was very shocked to hear of Perrys passing. I worked with Perry at zellers years ago. He was one of the nicest guys lIve ever met. I am so sorry, please accept my deepest condolences.

Jey lin 116w

Morgan Moffatt memory of Dad

I had just moved to Saint John after living out west my whole life. Forest hills was the first school I ever worked at and Perry was one of the first people to make me feel welcome. We happened to live just across the street (from the school) and would always see Perry driving in to check on something or to just be around. He would often stop and wave or yell across the street, to also check in on us and say hi. He was kind, understanding and just wonderful. My family sends our condolences to his and we will forever remember him as Santa. Rest in peace dear friend.

Jey lin 116w

Kerri Brooks Memory of Dad

Ever meet one of those humans who you just instantly connect with and know they would do anything and everything humanly possible to help those around them & make you smile well this amazing human, Perry is one of those rarities we cross paths with in our lifetime. I had the privilege of working with Perry on many occasions and loved everything about him - his attitude, work ethic, positivity and so much more. He was freaking Santa Claus during the Christmas season! Do I need to say more? The picture below is Perry helping out with dishes when we were short staffed - going above and beyond his custodial duties but wouldnt think twice about giving a helping hand. His life was cut too short. He recently retired from the school district in February 2024 and was looking forward to a slower pace lifestyle that retirement brings. Life can be so unfair sometimes. This hit hard. RIP Perry The Bee Me Kidz Team