Roel De Leon Perez

Roel Deleon Perez, age 70, of Atwater, California, passed away on November 17, 2025, surrounded by his family. He was born on December 20, 1954, in Kingsville, Texas, to Rodolfo and Elena Perez.

Roel was known for his genuine kindness and his willingness to help or build anything for anyone. Everything he did, he did with care—his meticulous attention to detail showed in all he created. He loved fishing, riding his Harley-Davidson motorcycle, and was truly gifted with his hands—a true craftsman he was.

Roel proudly served twenty years in the United States Air Force as an Aircraft Crew Chief. He was a parishioner of St. Anthony Church in Atwater, California, and participated in motorcycle rides honoring the lives of veterans. Most important to Roel was his family, and he built a beautiful life with his wife of 50 years.

Roel is survived by his loving wife, Jackie Perez; his children Roel Perez, Tricia Perez, and Kristina Baptista (Joey Baptista); 14 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; and his siblings: Rudy Perez (Donna), Roger Perez, Roland Perez (Dawn), Robert Perez, and Rosie Brozoski (Dave). He is also survived by his sister-in-law Sharon Scott (Barry), his brother-in-law Jesse Souza (Carol), and many nieces and nephews.

Roel is preceded in death by his parents, Rodolfo and Elena Perez and in-laws Jesse and Grace Souza; his sister Mary Lou Perez; his grandson Roel Perez; his sister-in-law, Tiiu Perez; his nephews, Joseph Scott, John Rudy Rodriguez, Marcus Patino, Roger Perez, and Robert Perez.

A service to honor Roel’s life will be held on December 2nd at 1:30 p.m. at Berge, Pappas, Smith Chapel of the Angels (40842 Fremont Blvd, in Fremont, California) where Roel was raised and where he met his beautiful wife in elementary school. It was important to the family to honor the place where he created so many cherished memories.

Roel will be deeply missed and forever remembered for being the nicest man to all. He will be Riding in Heaven freely forever.

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting a donation to a charitable ride that honors veterans—something Roel proudly participated in—or cancer research.

A special thank you to Mercy Cancer Center for their care and compassion.