Ernest "Ernie" O Perez

 Ernest “Ernie” O. Perez

July 17, 1949 – July 17, 2025

Ernest “Ernie” O. Perez passed away peacefully at home in Rancho Cucamonga on his 76th birthday, July 17, 2025, surrounded by the love of those closest to him. A proud Vietnam veteran and longtime resident of Rancho Cucamonga, Ernie will be remembered for his quiet strength, deep loyalty, and unwavering love for his family.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Victor V. Perez Sr. (1996) and Margaret Ortega Perez (2012), and his sister, Lucy Romano (2019).

Ernie is survived by his seven children: Tammy Aguilera (Eddie) of Victorville, Angelo Perez (Nydia) of Ontario, Theisman Perez (Ana) of Victorville, Christopher Perez of Hesperia, Andre Perez of Hesperia, Sara Perez of Hesperia, and Stephanie Perez (Rayno) of Victorville. He was a devoted grandfather to 14 grandchildren, great-grandfather to 2 great-granddaughters, and was joyfully awaiting the birth of a great-grandson. Ernie loved all his children deeply and unconditionally. Each one held a special place in his heart, and he was proud of them.

In the final months of his life, Ernie was lovingly cared for by his son Theisman and his daughters, who spent time by his side and helped ensure he was comfortable, supported, and surrounded by family. Their presence brought him peace and comfort, and their love never wavered.

Ernie is also survived by his sister Irene Muñoz of Hesperia and his brother Victor Perez of Apple Valley.

He loved the simple things: his dogs Timmy and Coco, fishing, BBQing, music, and classic cars. His happiest moments were spent with his grandkids, tools in hand, music playing, stories being shared across generations.

Ernie lived a humble, hardworking life centered around family, tradition, and loyalty. He will be deeply missed by all who truly knew and loved him, and his legacy will live on in every wrench turned, every song sung, and every moment spent around a grill.