Ira E Perry, 86, a long time resident of Baraboo, died peacefully Jan. 12, 2013 at St. Mary's Hospital, in Madison, after a short acute illness that complicated more chronic health issues. He was born in Reedsburg, Feb. 7, 1926, the son of Ray E. Perry and Inez Mildred Kinser Perry. Ira graduated from Reedsburg High School, The Moody Bible Institute where he majored in music, and the Sauk County Normal School. He served two years in the Navy during WWII. Ira was married to Rebecca May Dirksen June 5, 1948, and together they had two children. His daughter, Donna R. Perry, MD, is retired from the Naval Medical Corps, and is currently practicing pediatrics and adolescent medicine with the Indian Health Service in Chinle, Arizona. His son, Timothy R. Perry, is a resident of Bluffview and has worked in several industrial positions in Sauk County and has been a part-time blogger and writer. Over the years Ira worked in banking, as the business manager and secretary to Chappie Fox at the Circus World Museum, manager for the Baraboo Chamber of Commerce and later, the Greyhound Bus Station. From 1973-2005 he provided single room occupancy to men on parole or probation as a way to help them stay off the streets and have a chance to transition back to productive work and relationships. While frequently challenging, this was Ira’s way of giving back to the community. As a gifted musician Ira taught instrumental music both at home and for the UW-Sauk County, Baraboo. He was a church musician for a number of years. He led and played the musical accompaniment for the first musical production of the Baraboo Theatre Guild, Gypsy, in 1967. Another unique talent was playing the America Calliope at the Circus World Museum, and for many years on the circus train as it made its way to the parade grounds in Milwaukee. Ira volunteered his keyboard talents to entertain residents at the St Clare Meadows for several years, long before he became a resident at the Meadows. Also an excellent cook and baker, Ira worked at Paul Bunyan Restaurant, Wisconsin Dells, and the Baker's Dozen in Baraboo. He organized and managed a number of large church dinners in the Baraboo area. Ira's hobbies included knitting, gardening and reading 3 newspapers per day. He loved attending live musical performances. Of special joy were the Concerts on the Square and performances at the Ringling Theatre. When live performances were not available, he enjoyed orchestra and opera on public television. Ira is survived by his devoted and loving daughter, Donna; his son, Timothy; one grandson; his former daughter-in-law, Sandra Jeanne Perry; and several nieces and nephews. Ira was preceded in death by his sister, Beverly in early childhood; his parents, Ray and Inez Mildred Perry; and his brother, Mervin K. Perry. A very special thank you to Dr. James Damos, his caring and supportive physician, and to the staff of the St. Clare Meadows, where Ira lived for most of the last seven years. The staff was kind, helpful, and always professional. The family has much gratitude for the gracious community of faith at the First Congregational United Church of Christ, and to Pastor Douglas Fauth. They were an important part of his life. Their parish nurse, Geri Schoenoff was an excellent support and resource. A celebration of the life of Ira E Perry will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 19, 2013 at the First Congregational UCC Church, 131 6th St., in Baraboo, with Pastor Douglas Fauth officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be contributed to the Ira E Perry Memorial Music Scholarship c/o the Baraboo Community Scholarship Corporation , or the Memorial Fund at the First Congregational UCC Church, Baraboo. The Rago-Baldwin Funeral Home, 520 East St., in Baraboo, is assisting the family with arrangements.