James "Jim" Perez

James “Jim” Perez passed away on August 15, 2023. Jim is survived by his wife Sandra, his children Todd, Kari and Bobbey, his grandchildren Alyx, Sean, KeiAna, Austin, Jada, Charlee and Sadie, his siblings Anabelle Gallegos (Albert), Louis Perez, Diane Muller (Pat), Sister in-law Tracie Rothe (Peter), Godsons Adam Muller (Marissa), Jordan Rothe, Kyle Rothe (Gabby), as well as many nephews and nieces. He was preceded in death by his parents Bernabe and Margaret, his brother Bernie and his sister Judy. Also, his “brothers” Bennie Rivera and Timmy Martinez.

Jim was born on October 10, 1944. He attended Elementary and Jr. High School at Our Lady of Guadalupe, then attended Santa Fe High School, graduating in 1962. Being an avid Browns fan, Jim accepted a scholarship to attend Cleveland Engineering Institute where he studied Architectural Drafting. While in Cleveland, he held many jobs, but his very favorites were teaching kids to swim and arranging and delivering flowers. After graduation Jim was invited to join Peace Corps and served two tours. The first was in Isfahan, Iran where he served as an architect for the Ministry of Housing and Development. His second was in Baranquilla, Columbia where he helped set up farming co-ops. After his tenure with Peace Corps, he worked for several engineering and architectural firms in Santa Fe. Jim changed careers becoming an Optician and managed various optical shops, eventually owning two of his own. Jim worked and retired from the State of NM as an architectural engineer in Property Control.

The Family would like to THANK the ER team, ICU Nurses, Dr. Merrill, Dr. Nigum and the Security Staff at Espanola Presbyterian Hospital for their above and beyond excellent care. The Family also extends their deepest gratitude and appreciation to Dr. Shonk and staff at Espanola Presbyterian Medical Group, Dr. Janowak and the entire team at Rio Grande Foot and Ankle, Dr. Jester and staff of SF Dermatology, plus Monica Vigil CHR of Nambe Pueblo. Services will be held on Tuesday 8/22/23 at Our Lady of Guadalupe in Pojoaque with a rosary at 9:00 a.m. and mass at 10:00 a.m. A Catholic burial will be held immediately following the mass at Nambe Pueblo Cemetery with a reception to follow. In lieu of flowers donations in Jim’s memory may be made to your favorite local charity.