It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Rudy B. Perez, who passed away unexpectedly in Salt Lake City, Utah on July 5, 2024. Rudy was born on August 18, 1949 in San Jose, California to the late Eusebio and Concepcion Perez. He was raised in Gilroy, attended Gilroy schools and graduated from Gilroy High School, Class of 1967. After high school, Rudy enlisted in the Army, and was sent to Vietnam where he served as part of a long-range reconnaissance mission with the 173rd Airborne Brigade, 4th Battalion, Echo Camp. He served with distinction and received the Purple Heart for injuries received in combat, the Air Medal, Parachute and Combat Infantry Badges. Their motto is "Airborne All the Way" and their unit earned the nickname "Sky Soldiers." After completion of military service, Rudy worked as an Operating Engineer, Local 3, until he received his Bachelor and Master Degrees from California State University Stanislaus. He was employed by the State Departments of Corrections and Rehabilitation in both the states of California and Utah. He retired in 2009.

Rudy always had a natural curiosity of anything "mechanical" and in retirement enjoyed restoring old trucks, cars and guitars. He was an avid hunter, motorcycle enthusiast, raised sheep, loved music and often gifted his siblings and friends with his latest compilation of musical CD's. Rudy also enjoyed his trips to California where he visited his life-long friends, who many are recounting that he was like a brother to them.

Rudy is survived by his wife, Violetta and daughter, Karoleena Perez of Grantsville, Utah. He is also survived by his brothers and sisters, John B. Perez (Rachel) and Linda Sendejas of Gilroy, Rachel Sanchez and Edward B. Perez, of San Jose, and Vivien Griffin, (John) of San Antonio, Texas. Also survived by many nieces and nephews.

Rudy was preceded in death by his siblings John Perez, Dora Perez and Jess B. Perez, his half brothers and sisters Eusebio Perez, Marguerite Lopez, Manuel Perez, Otilia Lopez, Lupe Sembera and Jess A. Perez.

"The Lord is near to the broken-hearted and saves the crushed in spirit," Psalms 34-18.

Reception immediately following graveside service at the Gilroy Veterans Hall 74 W. 6th St , Gilroy.