Although he never made it to the moon, registered professional engineer Eugene Perchonok of Glendale helped others to do so. He helped develop the ram jet engine for supersonic flight and, later, advanced aircraft for manned space flight.
The Milwaukee native died Aug. 21 after a long illness. He was 83.
He graduated from Washington High School in 1938 and received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in engineering at the University of Wisconsin in 1942 and 1948, respectively.
He conducted research and developed technology at NASA, the Marquart Corporation and at the Aerospace Corporation that led man into space. He published over 50 articles on aerospace and was a member of the International Academy of Astronautics, serving as a member of the Space Rescue Studies Committee.
In addition, he was an associate fellow of the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics and chairman of the American Rocket Society. In 1960, he received an award for “advancement in the fields of astronautics, rockets and jet propulsion.”
From 1975 to 1981, after retiring from the Aerospace Corp., he joined the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, where he worked to help ensure safety in nuclear power plant construction and development. Also, he belonged to the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics.
He returned to Milwaukee in 1985 and joined Congregation Shalom. A licensed pilot, he enjoyed traveling throughout the world to learn about other cultures and countries, and also enjoyed sailing.
His family described him as a “quiet, contemplative, gentle man who never sought recognition for his accomplishments nor status, based on his impressive job history and achievements.”
He is survived by his sister, Harriet Perchonok of Milwaukee.
Rabbi Ronald Shapiro officiated at the funeral on Aug. 24. Burial was in Anshai Lebowitz Cemetery.
Memorials to NA’AMAT USA would be appreciated.
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