Ignacio Perez

Ignacio Perez, 92, of Aurora, IL, passed away peacefully on November 23, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of hard work, devotion, and deep love for his family.

He was born on February 10, 1933, in Los Cerritos, Atolinga, Zacatecas, Mexico, the firstborn son of Ezequiel and Bartola (Arteaga) Perez. Ignacio came to the United States at the age of 17 as part of the bracero movement in search of opportunity. He loved this country and made it his home, eventually becoming a proud citizen. Through determination and unwavering work ethics he built a life that reflected everything he valued most; faith, family, and gratitude. One of his greatest priorities was ensuring that his children received a strong education. He and his wife made countless sacrifices so they could attend Catholic schools, believing deeply that a good education and strong faith would open doors for them. A devoted Catholic, he prayed the rosary and watched mass daily. He worked for 30 years on the railroad before retiring in 1999 after many years of dedicated service. Nacho loved watching wrestling and the Chicago Cubs, and sharing his love of baseball with his family, proudly discussing each win and loss with his children and grandchildren. He treasured family gatherings and looked forward to celebrating 70 years of marriage in May, with the love of his life, Maria.

Ignacio will be remembered for his warmth, quiet strength, and the love he poured into his family. He had an unwavering faith that fueled his pursuit of the American dream.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Maria; children, Maria Carmen (Miguel) Contreras, Hector M. (Belma) Perez, Maricela (Roy) Perez-Renteria, Gloria (Manuel Herrera) Perez, Efrain Perez, Victor (Kristin) Perez, and his grandchildren, Zulma, Ezequiel, Judit, Alexandra, Amador, Amanda, Hector, Emily, Julietta, Diego, Marcel, Joshuea, Michelle, Jose Ignacio, Alessandro, Ava, Benjamin, and Olivia; 13 great-grandchildren and his sister, Anita. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews and his beloved dog, Canelo.

He is preceded in death by his parents, his eldest son Ezequiel (Rosalba) Perez and siblings, Trinidad, Amparo, Isabel, Francisco, and Isidra.

Family will be receiving guests on Friday, November 28, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Dieterle Memorial Home, 1120 S. Broadway Ave. Montgomery, IL 60538. Funeral mass will be on Saturday, November 29, 2025, at 10:00 AM at St. Rita of Cascia Catholic Church followed by burial at Mt. Olivet Catholic Cemetery, Aurora, IL.