In a sorrowful and heartfelt post made on Instagram, Fox News Channel host Dana Perino announced that her father had passed away unexpectedly, his copy of her new book–Purple State, a novel–found partway completed on his bedside when he was found dead. He was almost 80 years old at the time of his passing.
Beginning the post, Perino noted that her father did an incredible job of raising two girls, commenting also on his age and noting indeterminately that he died last week. She said, “My dad, Leo Perino, died late last week at age was 79. He was a great girl dad – he ensured Angie and I knew we could go far, and we did.”
Continuing, she commented on his making it through most of her new book, and that she was crushed that he didn’t finish it, but happy that he got to a certain scene in it. She said, “On his bedside was a copy of Purple State. He was on page 289. While that kind of crushed me, a good friend said what’s great is that he got to read the Packers’ scene. I loved that take.”
She then commented on how his former work colleagues viewed him so positively, as attested by another item found near his deathbed. She said, “Also on his bedside table, a laminated collection of reflections on his work from colleagues. And it reminded me of advice I had in I Wish Someone Had Told Me — to think not of what people will say at your funeral, but also at your retirement party.”
Perino noted that he passed away just weeks after retiring from a career that he loved, saying, “Wow. They called him “The Legend.” He went over and beyond. He was joyous in his work and was reluctant to retire but finally decided it was time. He died 29 days later.”
Concluding, she said that he would be missed, and commented as well on how he set such a good example for other Americans. “There is dignity and purpose in work, and he provided such a good example for so many, especially me. Rest in gentle peace, Dad. You were much loved and will be missed every day. @amachock,” she said.
Commenters on her post chimed in with messages of support. Dierks Bentley, for example, wrote, “Beautifully written Dana. He certainly sounds like a Riser to me! Nothing like #GirlDads ❤️” Similarly, fellow FNC host Kayleigh McEnany said, “Love you, Dana, and I’m so sorry for you loss!! Sending you prayers.”
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This latest sad news comes just weeks after Kat Timpf announced the horribly sad passing of her father. Doing so, she said, “My seemingly healthy, strong father Daniel “Dad Timpf” Timpf died very unexpectedly on the evening of May 7 at just 69 years old.” She went on to comment on her father’s positive qualities, and how he helped her get through the discovery that she had breast cancer when she was preparing to give birth to her baby boy, and helped the family get through that fight with cancer.
Watch Gutfeld comment on the passing here:
Featured image credit: Dana Perino Instagram