It is with profound sadness that the family of Willie A. Perez, Sr. announce his passing on March 9, 2022. He was 91. Willie was born on September 9, 1930 in San Elizario, TX to Jose Perez Jr. and Gertrudis E. Perez He was a devoted and faithful husband and family man. He was a devout Catholic who always put God and family first. His life’s dedication was to love and care for his family. His selfless dedication extended from his family to the love of his country, where he served in the U.S. Army during the height of the Korean War. He was wounded and was honorably discharged after four years of service and earned a Purple Heart, Bronze Star, Good Conduct Ribbon and many other service awards. While in the service, Willie sent the majority of his earnings to his parents and to help save their farm. After his discharge from the Army, Willie continued to serve his country as a U.S. Customs Inspector. During his 40 plus years of service, he helped to fight the war on drugs in Bogota, Colombia in 1976. In 1980 he continued his service in Miami, Florida during the Cuban Refugee Crisis. In 1984, he worked in Los Angeles, California during the U.S. Olympics. Throughout his career, he served in numerous other assignments throughout the U.S.
Willie is survived by his loving wife of 69 years, Irene Perez, his children, Willie Perez Jr., Annette Perez and Bonnie Seegers (Kelly), his four grandchildren, Danielle Cherie, Alex Joseph, Bryan Dylan and Brandon William; and one brother, Arturo Perez(Gloria) and his sister-in-law Martha Perez and many other family members and friends who will miss him dearly. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jose Perez, Jr. and Gertrudis Perez; sisters, Elena P. Solis (Felix) and Lucia P. Lujan (Raymundo) and his brothers Ernesto Perez and Gilberto Leon Perez, Sr. (Carmen).
Willie will always be remembered for his kindness, generosity and great sense of humor. He never sent anyone away without a kind word and blessing. He gave the best of himself to his family and friends without thinking twice. His bravery extended beyond his service to his country. Willie never complained even during the most trying of times. Instead, he thanked God daily for his many blessings. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten.
A visitation will be held on Wednesday, March 16, 2022 from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. with a Rosary to begin at 7:00 p.m. at Hillcrest Funeral Home, 1060 N. Carolina. A Funeral Mass will take place on Thursday, March 17, 2022 at 12:00 p.m. at San Elizario Catholic Church 1556 San Elizario Road followed by the interment at Fort Bliss National Cemetery where he will be laid to rest with Military Honors.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.hillcrestfuneralhomeeast.com for the PEREZ family.
