Armando Perez

With his family at his side and a song in his heart, Armando Perez enjoyed nothing more than sharing memorable times with those closest to him. Armando valued the simple pleasures in life, and providing for the family he loved was his greatest joy. Deeply missed, he will be fondly remembered.

Armando's story began during a time of great change in the U.S. Jazz music blossomed, and women won the right to vote. The year 1923 in particular marked many firsts within the fabric of American culture as the Walt Disney Company was founded, insulin became available for diabetics, and a vaccine for the whooping cough was developed. For Enrique and Elvira (Duron) Perez, the days were made even brighter with the birth of their son, Armando, born on March 13, 1923 in Albuquerque, New Mexico nestled along the Rio Grande.

The Perez family eventually made their home in San Antonio, Texas where Armando was raised alongside his siblings. His mother was a homemaker and his father worked the fields as a migrant worker. Work was indeed hard to come by during the economic struggles of the Great Depression. Armando and his family lived simply, and from a young age he worked right along with his family to make ends meet. As poor as his family was, they lived sparingly and without the luxuries so many had become accustomed to. However, Armando's family treasured their cultural heritage which became paramount in his life and the life of his family to come.

During his youth, much of Armando's life was spent on the road traveling. They often made the trip from Texas to Michigan. With most of their belongings and entire family packed into their car, it made for a rough, cross country ride, but as children, Armando and his siblings mostly made an adventure out of it. One time, he and his father were chosen to work in a field, so they hopped onto the back of the truck along with other workers. When the truck was involved in an accident and flipped over, it was a blessing when no one was harmed. In time, Armando learned how to hop the train from Texas to Traverse City, Michigan to pick cherries.

Years after moving to San Antonio, Armando and his family settled in the Detroit, Michigan area. Armando experienced little schooling during his educational years, but eventually went on to earn his GED. He loved music, especially jazz, and became quite talented playing the guitar and singing. When he came of age, Armando proudly served his country during World War II as did each of his brothers. Having served with the U.S. Army, he was stationed in France. He experienced much during this time, and remained quiet concerning this part of his life, like many others who served during World War II.

At one point, Armando lived next door to another family quite like his own. He was good friends with Robert next door, but from early on had his sights set on their eldest daughter, Frances Sanchez. Having known Frances since he was a youngster, the young couple was happily married in 1947. The first wedding ceremony for both families, cherished family photographs reveal it was a grand affair.

Before long, Armando and his new bride welcomed the births of five sons into their lives.Ronald, Robert, Gerald, Edward and Charles. Their sons meant everything to them, and family was the center of their universe. Having a family of their own was no easy task for Armando and his wife. The miscarriages of four boys created emotional challenges for them. Although raising five energy filled boys was no easy task, they cherished them wholeheartedly.

To support his family, Armando worked as a draftsman for Michigan Consolidated Gas Company. He retired in 1979 as a field officer, and did quite well for himself throughout the years. Armando enjoyed his work and the many friendships he made while working. It wasn't always easy though. One time during a lay-off, Armando had no choice but to seek out assistance to feed his family. Although a proud man, he'd do anything for the family he loved. They experienced many bouts of hardship over the years, but his children never knew any different.

Even when finances were tight, Armando found ways to make life enjoyable for those he loved. They loved going to Camp Dearborn and enjoyed many family picnics over the years. Once all the kids were out of school with the exception of the youngest, Armando was able to afford the opportunity for vacations and visited the Florida coast, among other destinations.

Armando had a quiet faith. He was an Episcopalian, and later converted to Catholicism. Even though he didn't regularly attend Mass, he believed in God. Additionally, Armando was a member of The Moose Club in the 1960s and often rented the hall there for many family parties and special occasions.

For holiday gatherings, or any reason to throw a party, their home was deemed party central! Seemingly quiet and shy, Armando could really light up a room when he played his guitar, singing with his wife, brother and sister-in-law. Family and friends always flocked to their home to enjoy good times where there was never a lack of good music, dancing and great conversation. He loved watching the Mariachi bands sing and play which always brought him delight. Sadly, Armando experienced the death of his wife in the 1990s.

Not a man to be left fending for just himself, Armando married Aurora Lamas in 1996. His second wife was a bundle of energy. She and Armando experienced much together, and she always had him on the go. Armando didn't need or want for much. As long as his family was content, he was at peace. He also had a penchant for cars, and was an avid fan of the Detroit Tigers baseball and Detroit Lions football teams. In his free time, he loved watching old westerns and movies on TV.

Armando found joy reminiscing about many wonderful memories. He delighted in his grandchildren, and the births of his own sons were included as some of his fondest memories. Additionally, he was extremely proud when his first son graduated from high school, and reveled watching his father live to the age of 109! His greatest day by far was the day he proposed to Frances when she said yes because she declined his proposal the first time.

In his later years, life for Armando slowed down a bit. Recently, his demeanor was of an almost whimsical nature. He wasn't shy about flirting with the nurses and aides, even when he needed to communicate by eye contact when his speech was compromised. The internal strength Armando demonstrated these last few months was remarkable. Even though he was failing, he put up a good fight. As long as he had his favorite Tigers blanket tucked up under his chin, Armando was content.

Armando Perez's outlook on life was laid back and simple. He was sure to provide for his family and enjoyed the simple pleasures of life that began long ago with his extended family. Always loving, he never hesitated expressing his love to his beloved sons, and his entire family. In all ways, his concern was genuine for their well being and happiness. Never to be forgotten, Armando's memory will be kept close in the hearts of all.

At the age of 90, Armando Perez passed away on Friday, October 4, 2013. He is survived by his sons: Ronald (Sandra), Gerald (Pauline, Edward (Linda), and Charles (Yvette); seven grandchildren; three step-grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren, and two step-great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Frances; second wife, Aurora; his son, Robert, and by his grandson, Max.

Visitation Monday 2-9 PM and Funeral Service Tuesday 10 AM at our Neely-Turowski Life Story Funeral Home 30200 Five Mile (Between Middlebelt and Merriman) in Livonia. You are welcome to share your favorite photos or memories and sign the guest book at Armondo's personal webpage at www.TurowskiLifeStory.com prior to arriving at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to Angela Hospice in Livonia, MI.