
Fox News Star Dana Perino’s Father, Leo Perino, 79, Dies in Denver, Colorado
Fox News host and former White House Press Secretary Dana Perino is grieving the loss of her father, Leo Perino, who passed away at the age of 79.
The news broke on the June 1 edition of Fox News’ America’s Newsroom, with Dana notably absent from the broadcast. No cause of death has been announced, and Dana has yet to release a personal statement.
The report was aired on the June 1 edition of America’s Newsroom, from where Dana Perino was noticeably absent. Greg Gutfeld later honored Leo’s memory on The Five, sharing reflections on his life and legacy with viewers.
A Civic Life Dedicated to Community
Leo Perino was an influential individual in Denver, Colorado, having spent most of his life as a civic activist. He advocated for neighborhood and community improvement for most of his life. Beyond his community work, he also reportedly had a background in broadcasting and worked briefly as a country music DJ.
Dana Perino has recalled in interviews how her father played a crucial role in her journalism career, having discussed politics with her since her childhood.
It is a bond that clearly shaped the television personality Dana became, and one that she has spoken about with warmth and gratitude over the years.
Leo had two girls with Jan — Dana and Angie. He lived in Denver, Colorado.
The Family Leo Left Behind
Leo is survived by his wife, Jan Perino, and his two daughters, Dana and her sister Angie Machock. Jan was raised in Rawlins, Wyoming, and was noted to be a gifted sportswoman.
In a 2013 interview at the time of her retirement from community service, Jan had described working for Lutheran Family Services, a non-profit, as her favorite job, though she noted her greatest pride was raising her daughters.
“My favorite job was raising two daughters to be professional, compassionate women who are making a difference in the world,” she said at the time.
Dana’s husband, Peter McMahon, an international businessman, has long been a steady presence in her life. Dana met Peter in 1997 when she had just secured a job on Capitol Hill. The two met on a plane, and Peter’s accent immediately struck her.
Despite the 12-year age gap, Dana’s late father, Leo, also approved of her relationship. He reportedly told Dana that an older man was exactly what she needed, given her tendency to always be in a hurry.
Dana’s sister Angie is an artist whose work has drawn praise from fellow Fox personalities. Ainsley Earhardt, co-host of Fox and Friends, praised Dana’s sister, saying she was blown away by the talent and generosity of Angie.
The news of Leo Perino’s death came on the heels of Dana Perino announcing her debut novel, Purple State. The bereavement is likely to affect her promotion schedule for the book.
Social media filled quickly with tributes from fans expressing their condolences to the Perino family, with many viewers of Dana’s shows sharing heartfelt messages of support and prayers during this difficult time.
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