Eugene A. Perez's Obituary
Eugene lived a life defined by love, laughter, hard work, and unwavering devotion to his family and community. He was one of the most vibrant people anyone could ever hope to know — naturally charismatic, dependable, endlessly goofy, and always willing to help whenever someone needed him. Even when you didn’t expect him to show up, Eugene was there.
He built an accomplished career through determination and talent, growing from a pizza manager into a respected architect whose work helped shape the community around him. His projects included the airport, FSU stadium, CollegeTown parking garage, and the Biology Building on Florida State University’s campus. He took immense pride in the work he created and the lasting impact it would have for generations to come.
But for Eugene, family was never just a word — it was the foundation of his life. Whether it was a random weekday evening, a backyard gathering by the pool, or a cross-country road trip, his greatest joy came from spending time with the people he loved. He loved grilling for family and friends, sharing stories, music, and laughter while always making sure everyone had enough to eat. And without fail, after every meal, Eugene could be counted on to ask the most important question: “Where’s dessert?”
He was a devoted father to Emily and Michael, and one of the greatest gifts he gave them was his time. He coached T-ball teams, served as a Cub Scout master, coached youth soccer, and happily participated in countless adventures and shenanigans alongside his children. Watching Emily and Michael grow from children into young adults was one of his proudest joys. Though if Eugene were being completely honest, his favorite child may have been Daisy, his beloved yellow lab, who held a very special place in his heart.
Of all the roles Eugene held in life, perhaps his favorite was being Kim’s husband and best friend. From the moment he met her, he knew she would one day be his wife, and on June 20, 1987, that dream became reality. Their marriage was filled with laughter, partnership, and unconditional love. Eugene was Kim’s favorite chef, her most dedicated science fair and robotics competition judge, being her #1 volunteer at solar tournaments and all her other STEM events, her #1 classroom supporter and cheerleader, her walking companion, and her adventure partner. Whether he was surprising her with a new garden trinket or simply sitting beside her watching a good movie, making Kim smile was one of his greatest joys. There was nowhere Eugene would rather be than beside his best friend, Kim. Kim was Eugene’s world, and Eugene was hers.
Eugene believed deeply in giving back. Volunteering mattered to him because he believed that if you want a better community, you have to help build one yourself. He gave generously of his time, energy, and heart to many community programs, including Habitat for Humanity, Cub Scouts of America, city/county sports programs and more.
He embraced life with the enthusiasm of someone who never lost touch with his inner child. Eugene had zero inhibition when it came to being silly, making people laugh, or enjoying the moment. He carried his Minions lunchbox to work every day — proudly gifted by his children — because that simple joy made him smile.
Music was another lifelong love. Raised on late ’60s and early ’70s rock and roll in Ann Arbor, Eugene could often be found listening to bands including KISS, AC/DC, Aerosmith and Bob Marley, music that perfectly matched his lively spirit and love for life.
Even when facing discomfort, Eugene showed up for the people he loved — including helping replace the roof on his father-in-law’s house despite his fear of heights. That was simply who he was: someone who put family first, no matter what.
Eugene’s legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched through his kindness, humor, generosity, and love. He leaves behind a family who adored him, friends who cherished him, and a community made better simply because he was part of it.
He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
Eugene is survived by Kim (his wife), Michael and Emily (his children), Mike (his father-in-law) and his nephews (Terry and Derrick).
A memorial service will be held on Monday, May 18 at The Homestead Barn at 3:30pm located at 519 Whitehouse Rd, Monticello, FL.
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