**John R. Perulfi: A Legacy of Innovation and Dedication**
John R. Perulfi, a visionary electrical engineer and inventor, passed away on May 29, 2024 at the age of 93. He leaves behind a legacy marked by over six decades of contributions to the fields of electrical engineering and power grid systems.
John was born on Jan 5, 1931 in St. Louis, MO to John B. and Emma Perulfi (née Boesing). Prior to beginning his distinguished career in electrical engineering, he served our country as an officer in the Air Force in the Korean conflict.
John’s professional journey began at Westinghouse, where he stood out to leadership early on through his innovative thinking, pursuit of excellence, and relentless pursuit of customer satisfaction. After contributing to numerous patents, he assisted with Westinghouse’s merger with Mitsubishi Electric Power Products. Over his long and illustrious career, John was not only a leader but also a mentor, inspiring countless colleagues with his dedication and ingenuity. John never retired and was still participating in conference calls and advising electric companies on grid design and product selections in the weeks preceding his passing.
John’s patents reflect his deep understanding of complex electrical systems and his ability to translate this knowledge into practical solutions that have been widely adopted across the industry.
Beyond his professional achievements, John was known for his kindness, generosity, and unwavering integrity. He was a beloved husband to Rita (née Munsterman), a devoted father to Roberta (Biros) and Robert, a grandfather to Robert and Steven Biros, Ashley and Alexis Perulfi, Christoper Berry, and a cherished friend to many. His wisdom, warmth, and sense of perfection will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
John R. Perulfi’s life was a testament to the power of perseverance, creativity, and a passion for making the world a better place through technology. His contributions will continue to light the way for future generations of engineers and innovators.
John will be interred next to his wife on June 1, 2024 at St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Evansville, IN.
I was saddened to hear about John’s passing. He was one of the kindest humans that I have ever had the pleasure of knowing and was always gracious with his time and advice. John was one of the first to welcome me to MEPPI approximately 11 years ago and he helped me navigate all things MEPPI and he personally introduced me to customers at one of my key accounts. Sending my condolences to his family and I hope that you all find peace and comfort from your cherished memories.
John was a great friend and neighbor. He always had a smile on his face a cheerful comment to all. We enjoyed his periodic visits and interesting views on life and the world around us. He will be remembered.
John and I worked together for Westinghouse Electric in the 1970s, John was the nicest man I knew. He was so respectful and kind and always smiling. He just made you feel good when you were in his presence. I very smart Electrical Engineer and always willing to take the time to help you, especially when he was teaching you about Electrical Breakers.
I will miss talking to him but I hope to see him again when we meet in Heaven God Bless his family. You have my deepest sympathy
Ralph Vitale
I am deeply sorry for our loss. I am truly saddened when I heard the news. John was a kind and sweet man, always willing to share his circuit breaker and electrical knowledge as well as much other knowledge. I had the pleasure of being acquainted with John in his last few years here as we had a standing monthly TEAMs meeting to chat about breakers, his life experiences especially in MEPPI, and the world problems, etc. Sometimes our 1-hour meeting extends to 2-hours and beyond as he had so much to share. We enjoyed each other’s company. John was still very sharp, witty and articulate and many a times I forget he is in his 90s. I enjoyed our time together and was glad to have had spent those times with him that I will forever cherished. John will be dearly missed but know that we will have a guardian angel watching over us now. My condolences, thoughts and prayers go to you and your family and know that John (your husband, dad, grandfather, and friend) had a wonderful life filled with lots of joy and love surrounded by loved ones. God Bless.
Nicholas Tesla and Westinghouse invented AC, Alternating Current. The problem was, At transmission voltages it was very difficult to switch and interrupt. John Perulfi and Russ Yeckley invented the modern-day puffer breaker which made it possible to supply AC to our homes over long distances. So Power Plants and wind farms are now hundreds of miles away from metropolitan areas.
John and Russ are the true American Hero’s. Their compensation from Westinghouse was $500 dollars each.
I am profoundly sorry to hear about John’s passing. I had the privilege of working with John for almost 20 years. John was a kind and gentle soul with boundless energy and enthusiasm in the pursuit of excellence, education, and doing the right thing. I knew John as a prolific, authoritative, technical author and contributor at work. Off the clock, John was always humorous, attentive, and optimistic. He was truly a one-of-a-kind individual.
My condolences to all who knew John, especially to his family and close friends. He will be missed by all of us.
I had the Pleasure to know and visit with John for over 20 years. To say he kept busy and loved his work was an understatement; just as to say he loved his family and grandkids!!
John was engaged and interested and I has thrilled to hear he finally accepted Robie’s offer to come spend time at her house.
I pray for God’s Grace to embrace all that knew John, Jesus’ Love to warm their hearts along with all the special memories/stories and the Holy Spirit continue to guide the family through the mourning process.
Peace,
Scott M.