Edward Jesse Perrin

May 9, 1973 – January 23, 2025

Born in the small but vibrant community of Kake, Alaska, Edward Jesse Perrin came into this world on May 9, 1973 with a spirit as bright and enduring as the northern lights. Raised amidst the beauty of Southeast Alaska, Ed’s early years were shaped by the strong traditions and values of his family and the community that surrounded him.

At 19, Ed ventured to the Lummi Reservation, where he began the next chapter of his life. It was there that he welcomed his first son, John; marking the beginning of his cherished role as a father. Shortly thereafter, he settled on the Tulalip Reservation, a place that would become his lifelong home and where his legacy of love, laughter, and unshakable strength would flourish.

Ed’s career began at the Tulalip Casino, where his skill as a table games dealer and his unmatched expertise in the dice game earned him the respect and admiration of the Las Vegas “Dice Kings”. Ed finished out his career at the Tulalip Resort Casino as the bellman & Valet attendant, giving 20 plus years of service to the Tulalip Tribes in numerous departments. Ed brought not only mastery to his work but also a unique joy and charisma that drew people to him.

It was at the casino that Ed found his greatest treasure: the love of his life, Monique Shopbell. Their bond was electric, a “Rez love” that grew into a partnership of unwavering devotion. Together, they built a beautiful family, adding to Ed’s life two beloved children, Michael and Mikaylee, and their youngest Emma, completing their circle of love.

Ed’s life was a testament to living freely and passionately. He was a man who stood out in every room, not just for his striking appearance—often channeling his inner “John Wick”—but for the magnetic energy and spirit that surrounded him. Ed had a way of making everyone feel seen, heard, and valued, leaving an impression on countless lives.

Edward Jesse Perrin is survived by his soulmate, Monique; his loving parents, John and Joann Perrin, and Rockey Shopbell; his siblings, David (Terra), Winona (Cyrus), Beatrice (Jayson), Hazen (Tia), Cecelia (Chris), Santee (Vanessa), Kathy, Santana (Nick), and Dominic; his children, John (Danielle), Michael (Taylor), Mikaylee, and Emma (Cole), little Santee, numerous foster children and his five treasured grandchildren; John Jr, Kylee, Sage, Xeraya, and Faye.

Edward Jesse Perrin is proceeded in death by his Grandparents David Perrin, Emma Williams, and Benson & Louis Kadake, Mother-in-law Peggy Shopbell, and numerous aunts and uncles.

Ed’s spirit lives on in the hearts of all who knew him. He was a man who embraced life with a fearless heart, a steadfast love for his family, and an infectious energy that reminded us all to live fully and love deeply.

“I know y’all are thinking it, so let me just say it. This obituary had to be as long as his hair”