Richard M. Perez passed away peacefully on Saturday, August 19, 2023, at the age of 72. He was born in Pittsburg, California to Jess Perez and Carmen Easley. At the age of eight he was sent to Santa Rosa, California where he lived in foster care. His last foster home was with Rita Stedman who he lived with for 27 years. He then moved to Antioch to take residency with his sister Lydia and his brother-in-law Manny Romo, where he lived until his passing.

The first job Richard had was working at Chili's as a restaurant assistant. He also belonged to Social Vocational Services which he considered a job too. Richard being a loving, caring, social person made many friends and loved the staff.

Richard loved music, dancing, coloring, writing, going on cruises, trips to Hawaii, and participated in his Special Olympic Games. His last special Olympic games were at UCLA. His favorite things were to keep score at the bocce ball events that he went to with his sister Lydia and brother-in-law Manny. According to Richard's score sheets Manny's team never lost a game! He was truly an inspiration to his Bocce ball family which admired him for his great story telling of his magical life on this earth.

He will truly be missed but not forgotten and forever be in our hearts.

Richard is survived by his sister Lydia Romo and brother-in-law Manny Romo. Five nieces: Gina LaDue, Antonette Romo, Kim Martin, Cassandra Romo and Anndria Romo. Three great nieces Heather La Due, Kasey Owings, Lucia Romo-Murillo. Two great nephews: Kai Martin and Armando Romo-Murillo. One great-great nephew Caleb Bennett. He was preceded in death by his great nephew Jeremy La Due who he is joining in heaven.

He now stands before the Lord relieved of all his disabilities and pain free, allowing Richard to do the things that he would of loved to have done on earth.

Friends and family are invited on Thursday, August 31, 2023, from 3:00pm to 5:00pm with a vigil at 5:00pm. Funeral liturgy Friday, September 1, 2023, at 10:30am all at St. Ignatius of Antioch. Committal services following at Holy Cross Cemetery in Antioch.