Leonides Perez

Born in Santiago de Cuba in 1938. He met the love of his life, Nilda Fragosa in 1959 and married her in January of 1961 at the age of 22.

On July 3, 1963 they arrived in the United States, fleeing communist Cuba with only the clothes the were wearing. They eventually settled in New Jersey where both found jobs and began living the American dream.

They had their first and only son, John in 1965. In 1976 Leon, (as his family lovingly referred to him), moved the family to Florida to warmer weather, settling in West Palm Beach.

Leon was an exceptional electrician by trade and over the many years living in Florida worked as an electrician supervisor in the construction industry. He had a hand in the building of many high rises and condos throughout Palm Beach County that are still there today. He took incredible pride in his job and was always determined that things were done correctly the first time.

Leon was also known within his family as “Mr. Fix It.” Whatever wasn’t working, Leon had the magic touch and always made it as good as new.

Leon’s first and only love was his family. He enjoyed seeing his son’s progression in his law enforcement career. He was proud to be present for all three of his son John’s promotional ceremonies up to the rank of Captain.

Leon gained the daughter he never had in 1990 when John, following in his father’s footsteps, married the “love of his life” Kelley Dunn.

They gave Leon and Nilda two amazing grandchildren.

Jonathan and Christina, became the center of Leon’s universe. Upon his retirement from Stryker Electric in 2006, he was promoted to elementary and middle school pick-up duty. He was first in line every single day! He treasured every moment with Jonathan and Christina, and was there to witness every recital, game, performance and graduation they both experienced. After they both graduated from college, Jonathan became an Army officer and Christina moved to Texas to design for a jewelry company. Leon continued to be their biggest supporter from afar.

Absolutely nothing made him happier than to talk to them, or see them on FaceTime. Simply talking about his grandchildren moved Leon to tears.

We will all remember him saying “Wow” when he opened any and every gift.

We will remember all of the

hats he stylishly wore. How much he adored and cared for every four-legged family member (Mia, Princess, Nelly, Willy, Laica, Chili, Chauncey, Gigi, and Cookie).

Leon and Nilda were married 59 years and seven months. He is the true definition of devotion, hardwork, dedication to family, and living the American Dream.

We will always love you and miss you “Ito” as his grandkids called him. (Short for “Abuelito.”)

You are now an angel of God who we know will always be looking over us.

We will see you again.

Love You!