Esther V. Perez

Esther Perez passed away peacefully with her family by her side at home on October 23, 2017. Esther was born in March 1924 in El Paso, Texas. The daughter of Eduvijes and Andres Valdiviezo, Esther is predeceased by her husband Carlos Perez and first husband Frank Talavera; sisters, Margarita, Nicolasa, Dolores, Gloria and Emma, and her brother Ignacio. She is survived by her six children, Frank Talavera Jr. (Patricia), Raymundo Talavera (Ofelia), Richard Talavera, Margaret Talavera, Jacqueline T. Rauh (Richard) and Emma Ortiz (Rudy Jr.), along with 5 grandchildren, Christina, Rudolph, Evaristo, Franklin and Jessica, and 3 great grandchildren, Tiana, Alejandro and Santiago.

Esther grew up in El Paso, TX (a proud Bowie High School Alumnus). She married Frank in 1945 and soon after moved to California, settling in Daly City, CA in 1960. After several years working at Mary’s Help Hospital, Esther followed her heart and had a long career as a community organizer, activist and advocate for North San Mateo County children and seniors. Esther was “leaning in” before it was acceptable. A role model and mentor to many young people, Esther was involved with many organizations including Mexican American Women’s National Association, Jefferson Elementary School District, Guadalupe Health Center and the San Mateo Health Council, as well as many others

After retirement, Esther found love for a second time, and married Carlos Perez. Carlos and Esther returned to their hometown of El Paso in 1991. Esther never really retired-she continued to make contributions to her community by being an activist, organizer and advocate for the less fortunate through her work with Unite El Paso, Que Bonita Familia and the El Paso Democratic Party. She was a dear friend to many. She was a patriot and proud to be a member of the greatest generation, serving as the Chairperson of the Loyalty and Americanism committee for the Ladies Auxiliary, VFW Post 5615.

After the loss of Carlos, Esther rejoined her children in California where she lived peacefully for her remaining days, with love, laughter and enjoying all that Northern California has to offer.

Her soaring spirit, generosity, love of family and awesome tamales will be missed.

This is the day that the Lord has made; Let us rejoice and be glad in it. Psalm 118:24