"Pastor Mike” Cecilio Perez age 81 of Fresno, California passed away on Sunday, December 10, 2023. Pastor Mike was preceded in death by the love of his life Rebecca Marie Perez “Sister Beckie” who passed away in 2005 at the age of 66. Cecilio was also preceded in death by his parents Serapio and Nieves Perez, brother Chris Perez, brother Leonard Perez, sister Angie Zamora and in-laws Pastor Marcelino and Rebecca G. Reymundo. Cecilio is survived by his daughter Michelle Perez-Ybarra, daughter Terese Perez-Corchado (Paul), granddaughter Jacqlene Nicole Ybarra, grandson Michael Thomas Lanas, great-grandson Bentley Michael Beckym Estrada and great-granddaughter Brooklynn Briyele Estrada, all of Fresno, California.
In addition he is also survived by his brother Magdaleno Perez Sr., sister Mary Gallegos and brother Raul Perez, all of Madera, California. An abundance of nephews, nieces, and extended family remain whom were held dear to him. Cecilio “Pastor Mike” will be greatly missed as a Father, Grandfather, Great-Grandfather and Pastor.
Cecilio Perez was born on August 19th, 1942 in Robstown, Texas. He moved to Madera, California with his parents and siblings in 1954. Cecilio met the love of his life Rebecca Marie Raymundo. On March 29th, 1981 that after many years of prayer from his devout wife and father-in-law, that he made the commitment to be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. It was through that choice many of his Perez family members followed and were converted to the faith.
In July of 1984 Cecilio was appointed to be ordained as pastor in Sacramento, CA. Pastor Mike served his congregation with his wife, “Sister Beckie” actively in Fresno as well as Madera where they held church services on Tuesday nights at a local church. Cecilio also served as chaplain at the Madera County Department of Corrections.
After the loss of his wife in 2005, he still remained devoted to his church West Fresno Apostolic Fellowship, the ministry and spreading the gospel with now the support and help from his daughter Terese and grandson Michael. The legacy will continue. Cecilio “Pastor Mike” Perez fought the good fight, finished the race, and kept the faith. 2 Timothy 4:7.
Our Dad, Der-Der, Dappy, Chicho… your love, support, guidance and prayers and most importantly your presence will be missed tremendously! You’ve left a void that will never be filled or forgotten, you’ll forever be in our hearts!