Jose Benjamin Perez

Jose Benjamin “Benny” Perez, age 69, of Magnolia, Texas passed away Sunday morning, at his home surrounded by his loving family. Born March 29, 1943, in Medellin, Colombia, his long struggle with a chronic heart condition has come to an end.

As a machinist, Benny founded Gretna Machine Shop in 1980. With much love and dedication he led the company as President for 32 years. In his spare time he enjoyed gardening, collecting bills from around the world, and watching the Astros and Rockets. He also enjoyed entertaining his friends by telling jokes, reciting poems and playing dominos or cards. He was passionate about helping others, and was loyal to his family and friends.

He is survived by his dedicated and beloved wife of 43 years, Ninfa G. Perez; their three daughters: Nereida Maria Perez, who passed away of Lupus in 1989; Nancy Perez, her husband Eric Vargas, their daughter, Catalina Andrea Vargas; and Nubia Andrea Perez. He has many loving relatives in Colombia, and many adoring friends from Houston, New Orleans, San Antonio, and Germany.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 3, 2012 from 5:00 pm—8:00 pm at Memorial Oaks Funeral Home, 13001 Katy Freeway, Houston, Texas, 77079, with a Vigil Service and Rosary that evening at 6:30 p.m. Funeral and Memorial Services will be held on Thursday, October 4, 2012 at 11:00 am at St. Jerome Catholic Church, 8825 Kempwood Drive, Houston, Texas, 77080.