German Oquendo Perez, 86, Played Guitar and Wrote Poems, Riddles and Jokes

In life, German was a Christian who knew how to get to heaven. Every day he was a role model for James 2:18: But someone will say, “You have faith, and I have works.” Show me your faith without your works, and I will show you my faith by my works. German definitely showed his faith by his works.

He made his way in life from Utuado, Puerto Rico, working his way throughout the states as a migrant farmer until by word of mouth, an opportunity to work for Ford Motor Company, Brookpark, proved to be his fortune. Thirty-one and a half years he gave it his best. He married Juanita and proved himself an honorable and obedient husband who truly treated her siblings like family. German was a humble and quiet man who carried a strong silent love for each of his four children. His love will comfort them for the rest of their lives.

He was a very involved member of Sacred Heart Chapel. In addition to attending regular mass, he was a constant volunteer. German had helped with the construction of the church and took his boys with him to lend a hand. He was associated with Sacred Heart Credit Union for many years and was involved with the cursillistas. He had also served as a board member for the Puerto Rican Home. Some of his past times were his involvement with El Dorado at El Centro. German was also a member of the United Auto Workers Local 1250, Brookpark. He loved playing dominoes with his friends and had won some domino tournaments in his time. Every summer he gardened and shared his produce with everyone. He never passed an opportunity to travel with his daughter Nellie who always had an open invite for him. Baseball was his favorite sport and the Indians his favorite team. He played guitar and wrote numerous poems, riddles and jokes. He hosted the family and friends annual New Year’s Eve celebration that was attended and enjoyed by many. German was generous to a fault.

Until they see him again, his children, Nelaida “Nellie” Nieves of Lorain, Wilfredo “Willie” (Mercedes) Perez of Lorain, Radames Perez of North Olmsted, Noel (Patricia) Perez of Maryland, 9 grandchildren, 7 great grandchildren, and brothers Luis Manuel Perez of Tennessee and Efrain Perez of Connecticut will carry fond memories of this servant of God.

German is now with his loving wife Juanita Perez, his parents Faustino Perez and Celestina Oquendo; son in-law Juan Nieves, Jr, and daughter in-law Regina Perez. Most importantly, he is with our Lord because he showed his faith by his works.

His family will receive friends Friday, February 16 from 4 to 8 in the Richard J. Reidy Funeral Home, 1783 East 31st Street, South Lorain. Friends may also call Saturday from 8:30 AM until the time of Mass of Christian Burial at 9:30 AM at Sacred Heart Chapel, 4301 Pearl Avenue, Lorain. Rev. Father William A. Thaden, Pastor will officiate. Burial will follow in Calvary Cemetery, Lorain.

His family suggests contributions to the Sacred Heart Memorial Fund, 4301 Pearl Avenue, Lorain, Ohio 44055.

For further information and for expressions of sympathy, see Reidyfuneral.com.