Gamaliel "Willie" Perez

Gamaliel "Willie" Perez was born June 28, 1943, in Houston, Texas to Ramon Adames Perez and Maria Castillo Perez. 

Willie is preceded in death by his parents Ramon & Maria, his younger brother Robert Perez, and eldest sister Katherine (Kate) Blanco. Willie is survived by his remaining sister Martha E. Vasquez and brother-in-law Gerardo Vasquez, his younger brother Josue Perez and sister-in-law Kathy, and youngest brother Arnold Perez and sister-in-law Ester. Willie had nine nieces & nephews: Norma, Angélica, Tina, Jonathan, Adam, Elizabeth, Matthew, Fernando and Rodrigo. 

Willie was a self-educated man who read widely and deeply. He walked to the beat of his own drum and was usually two steps ahead of everybody-- impatiently waiting for the rest of us to figure out what was very obvious to him.  Willie served his country via the army and was stationed in France for two years. Upon his return from the service, Willie lived carefree from one adventure to another. In the early 1990's Willie made up his mind to reset and he embarked upon a new journey that included sobriety and re-tooling for meaningful employment as a building superintendent. Willie loved to tinker and was the ultimate DIY guy both at home and at work. 

 More importantly, Willie was a family man. He lovingly cared for his younger brother Robert for many years until his death and he provided emotional support to his sister Kate as she faced grave illness. Willie did not wear his religion on his sleeve; however, he was always willing to lend a helping hand and provide encouragement to family, friends, and anyone who crossed his path. 

Willie:  You finished your race your way and we are all very proud of you. We will miss your dapper Low-Rider style and old-school, Northside swagger. We will forever miss your big beautiful smile, deep dimples, and mischievous twinkle in your eyes. We take great comfort in knowing that you are reunited with family, friends, and your beloved fur children--Prieta, Guero, and Prieto. Rest in peace knowing that you will continue to live in our hearts and memories. 

Expressions of Gratitude

The Perez family wishes to express our sincerest gratitude to the medical & support staff at Kingwood Healthcare Center, PAM Rehab (Humble), Birchwood Golfcrest Nursing Home, and the VA Hospital for their excellent care these last seven weeks. We also wish to thank our first cousins --the Castillo-Leija-Aranda clan--for their faithful support and encouragement as we cycle through life.

In the course of his journey, Willie crossed paths with wonderful friends who became family. We especially wish to express our utmost appreciation to Yesenia Maya and her daughters Natalie, Daniela, and Andrea; Michelle Samudio and her daughters Monica & Leslie; Mirtha Sousa; and last but not least, the amazing Canales sisters Grace & Diana. Thank you all for stepping in at all hours of the day to help us care for Willie. The greatest gift Willie left us was your friendship.

Con Todo Mi Cariño, 

Angélica Guel

(Willie's "Rascal")