Vale Gwen Perkins

Sadly, this week we farewelled one of Great Lakes Bridge Club's grand ladies, Gwen Perkins (24 July 1929 - 7 February 2025). 

Gwen joined our ranks in 1981 and quickly became an intrinsic member, directing and holding countless executive roles over the next 20 years. A Gold Life Master, possibly her greatest achievement for our club was the establishment of Thursday morning games for beginners where anyone fresh from lessons would be paired up to play. An excellent teacher and mentor, Gwen would be on call to support the newbies in their bidding and play as required. There were times when this session became so popular, two sections were fielded. Gwen made sure that everyone grew to love both the social and competitive sides of our game.

Gwen and husband George had three sons and seven granddaughters. She was a great sporting woman who enjoyed swimming, golf and tennis. But her greatest passion was bridge. Gwen's beautiful funeral on 12 February was attended by many of our members. In the heartfelt words of one of our current teachers and mentors, Shirley:

"We miss you, Gwenny. [You were] a great friend and support to all Thursday players. Many of us owe our love of bridge to you and we hope to carry on your legacy."