DODGE CITY - John Philip Perez Sr., aged 78, passed away peacefully on Monday, March 17, 2025, at Wesley Medical Center in Wichita, Kansas, surrounded by his children, grandchildren, and loving wife. He was born on Saturday, March 30, 1946, in Kinsley, Kansas, to George "Gregory" Perez and Beatrice Perez (Armijo). Mr. Perez was a graduate of Kinsley High School.

John, who always signed his name as Mr. John Philip Perez Sr., was a machinist by trade, having worked at Cross Manufacturing in both Lewis and Great Bend, Kansas. Later, he became a Licensed Mental Health Technician at Larned State Hospital and dedicated many years as an Accounts Manager at ColorTyme in Dodge City, Kansas. Above all, he most cherished his roles as a devoted Husband, Father, Grandfather, Son, Brother, and Friend.

On November 8, 1982, he married Olga Perez (Bencomo) of Chihuahua, Mexico, in Jetmore, Kansas. Their meeting sparked an immediate and profound connection, and their love flourished within the sacred covenants of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (LDS Church). United by laughter, shared dreams, and a commitment to the teachings of Jesus Christ, they solemnized their union for time and eternity in the temple on May 11, 1996.

A devoted husband, a nurturing father, and a respected High Priest in the LDS Church, Mr. Perez centered his life around his family and faith. His testimony of the Atonement of Jesus Christ, a guiding force, was evident in his humility, often directing praise to the Savior, and attributing his strength and courage to his unwavering faith. He often shared his conviction, stating, "I am nothing without Him," and emphasizing that "the Atonement is not just about forgiveness; it's about change and hope. No matter what mistakes we make, we can always turn to our Savior for help. Let go and let God."

Mr. Perez was the kind of father who never missed a soccer game or scholastic event for his children and grandchildren and was an honored guest at Grandparents Day on multiple occasions. Family gatherings were central to his life; holidays and special occasions at the Perez home were filled with laughter and the aroma of Olga's enchiladas. As the gracious host, Mr. Perez would lead the family in prayer, expressing gratitude for their blessings and strong bonds, reminding them that "Family is a divine gift, and we must cherish it."

The legacy of Mr. John Philip Perez Sr. endures in the hearts of his family and all who were touched by his love and faithfulness. His life, an inspiration to generations, exemplified a life well-lived, centered on Christ and family.

John is preceded in death by his parents, George and Beatrice Perez; his son, Justin Keenan Perez; his brother, Gilbert Leroy Perez; his brother-in-law, Boyd Vest; his grandchildren, Donivan Philip Joaquin, Kaitlyn Liana Cubillo, and Aaron Lee Boese; his nephews, Aaron Matthew Perez and Luis Diego Galvan; and his nieces, Maritza Isabel Galvan and Candice LeAnn Perez.

Mr. Perez is survived by his wife, Olga Perez; (5) Siblings: Rosalita Vest, Gloria Lock (Dale), (Lisa), Larry Perez, Tom Perez (Diane), Mary Alice Bencomo (Alvaro): (9) Children: John Perez Jr, Michelle Perez, Gregory Perez (CJ), Jason Perez (Roxanne), Beatrice Joaquin (Andrew), Julie Cubillo (Fili), Ashley Gladney (DeMario), Cassandra Mata (Francisco), and Vanessa Rodriguez (Nicholas); 39 Grandchildren; 25 Great-Grandchildren; and 2 Great-Great-Grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, March 22, 2025 at 10:00 am at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, Dodge City. Burial will follow at Maple Grove Cemetery, Dodge City. Visitation will be held Friday from noon to 7:00 pm at Ziegler Funeral Chapel, Dodge City.

The family suggests memorials to Olga Perez in care of Ziegler Funeral Chapel, 1901 N. 14th Ave., Dodge City, Kansas 67801.