Obituary of Coach Gilberto Perez

GILBERTO RICARDO PEREZ Gilberto Ricardo Perez, 63 years old, of Edinburg, TX, passed away on May 21, 2015, due to chronic health complications. The family would like to thank Dr. Curtis Maynard, other Specialist and doctors, as well as the many medical staff who treated and cared for Coach Perez. Your time, patience and hard work is very much appreciated. Gilberto Ricardo Perez was born and raised in Edinburg, TX on June 30, 1951. He graduated from Edinburg High School and received his Bachelors Degree from The University of Texas Pan-American in Biology. He was married to Lydia Sanchez Perez on July 4, 1978. Gilberto "Rick" Perez was an educator and athletic coach for the Edinburg ECISD for 31 years. He was a powerful and brilliant athlete as a young man. He coached several sports including Football, Basketball, Track and was most proud to be the Head Varsity Baseball Coach for the Fighting Edinburg Bobcats for several years. As a winning coach and teacher, he touched the lives of many, making positive and life-changing impressions on his adoring students and players. While not on the field, Coach Perez enjoyed spending time with his loving wife, kids and pet companions Rocky and Sheba. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, car shows, spending time at the beach and Barbecuing. Wherever he went someone knew him. He loved running into past friends, colleagues and former students/players talking about the good ole days. He will be sorely missed by many, but remembered by all! "You taught me determination. You gave me the skills to persist in life's game, and for that I will always give thanks for you and look back and boast that I had the privilege of calling you coach." He is survived by his loving wife of 36 years Lydia Sanchez Perez, children; Rachael Nicole Perez, Erika Lizette Perez, Derrick Kyle Perez and Brandon Cole Perez, Grandson Darin Daniel Saenz, Mother Dora G. Perez, Siblings Fred (Diana) Perez III, NoraLinda (Danny) Villalba , Roberto (Patricia) Perez, Ralph (Norma) Perez and numerous nieces and nephews. Services will be held on Sunday, May 24, 2015 at Legacy Funeral home in Edinburg, TX. Visitation will be from 5pm to 9pm with a prayer service at 7 pm today, Sunday, May 24, 2015, at Legacy Chapels, 4610 S. Jackson Rd in Edinburg lead by Roberto Perez. A live webcast of the prayer services can be viewed at www.legacychapelsrgv.com. Funeral service will be at 11am Monday, May 25, 2015, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Edinburg. Family will receive friends for a catered luncheon at Legacy Chapels after the service. Funeral services are under the direction of Legacy Chapels in Edinburg.