Gift 
Dr. David and Mrs. Marge Perkins
Marge Perkins started volunteering at the Zoo in 1979, and Dave followed suit in 1994. That same year they joined the Marlin Perkins Society, then became members of the Heritage Society in 1999. Dave is a retired radiologist and former professional trumpet player. Marge, who passed away in 2014, was a retired school teacher who leaves behind many friends and family. Marge and Dave grew up in South St. Louis and were high school sweethearts. Understanding the educational and emotional impact that zoos play in the lives of young and old alike, Dave and Marge for years split their time between volunteering at the Saint Louis Zoo and at the Living Desert Wildlife and Botanical Park in Palm Desert, California. In 2012 they were presented with the Saint Louis Zoo Award for their many contributions of time, talent and treasure.
When asked why they supported the Zoo both in lifetime and a gift-in-will plan, Dave said, "Having grown up in St. Louis and spending most of our adult lives here, we feel an obligation to support the Zoo and other great institutions both now and into the future."
Their love and support of the Saint Louis Zoo is evident to visitors, as their generosity is recognized all around Zoo grounds. They have supported projects at Big Cat Country, The Living World, the Orthwein Animal Nutrition Center, Sea Lion Sound and McDonnell Polar Bear Point. Marge and Dave have touched nearly every aspect of the Zoo with their giving, and have fashioned a beautiful legacy to keep the Zoo thriving even after their lifetimes. We are grateful for their invaluable service to the Zoo and their never-ending generosity to support our mission.
