Gerard Perches' Obituary
A Life Well Lived
Gerard R. Perches, known as "Jerry," was born on December 30, 1954, in Los Angeles, California, to Matilda and Reynaldo Perches. He was the youngest of four children. Jerry shared his love, and God’s love for nearly seventy years, by living a life devoted to God, family and friends- a life well lived! At the age of 17 he joined the United States Army and served his country at home and overseas. After his military service, Jerry pursued further education in various skilled trades, eventually becoming a master carpenter and maintenance expert. These abilities proved invaluable when he returned to his hometown, where he spent many years working in the carpenter's shop at the LA Times.
Jerry was also deeply committed to his church, Calvary Chapel West Covina, where he generously shared his time and talents wherever there was a need. It was at the West Covina Calvary Chapel where Jerry met his future bride, Maria Theresa “Terry” Saucedo, who would become his devoted life’s partner. In 1984, Jerry and Terry were married, and Jerry embraced the role of a father figure to Terry's daughters, Helen and Hope. Before long, their family grew with the arrival of their own children, daughter Jessica and son Joshua.
As Jerry’s family grew, so did his desire to serve the Lord more deeply. While attending Calvary Chapel West Covina, Jerry's servant's heart was put to good use when the church's growth necessitated a new building. He eagerly volunteered his skills to help with the construction, contributing to the establishment of Calvary Chapel Golden Springs. Jerry felt called to full-time ministry. He was ordained and served under the leadership of Pastor Raul Ries. As an associate pastor at Calvary Chapel Golden Springs, Jerry was blessed to minister to the body of Christ as a counselor, a Bible teacher, and by serving on mission trips to Mexico, Chile, and Colombia where he had the privilege to help in the rebuilding of the “El Secreto Mission” with Sharon Ries who spearheaded the project.
In the late 1990s, the Perches family moved to Albany, New York, to establish a new church. During this time, Jerry once again put his skills to use, serving as the Maintenance Supervisor at Crossgate Mall. By 2015, the Perches family was excited to make Tampa, Florida, their new home. Jerry retired from the corporate world and started his own business. Perches Quality Home Repairs, providing “handyman” services to the community. Meanwhile, Terry worked as a real estate specialist. Together, they helped others buy, sell, and repair homes, exemplifying their loving, lifelong partnership.
Jerry’s favorite way to spend a day off was at the beach with Terry and their family. He cherished these moments, and a leisurely bike ride always provided the perfect ending to a busy day.
While attending a pastor’s conference in Merritt Island, Jerry and Terry met Pastor Marc Orozco from Calvary Chapel Brandon, and from that moment on, their paths were intertwined. Although their home was in Pasco County, Jerry and Terry joyfully made the drive—often more than once a week—to serve their church community. God continued to open doors for Jerry, allowing him to use his skills to fix and repair anything that was needed. He built backdrops for Vacation Bible School, church plays, and even helped renovate the youth house. In addition, Jerry was actively involved in the men’s ministry and was a devoted prayer warrior. Jerry had a deep passion for missions and was fortunate to visit Cuba in September 2023 with Pastor Alex Ortiz. He exemplified his faith and love for the Lord through his actions, serving humbly as a Deacon and Board Member. Jerry was always ready to lend a hand, never taking off his tool belt!
Jerry Perches spent his time on earth in devoted service to God and mankind. His faith, humility, and dedication left an indelible mark on everyone he met. His legacy of love, faith, and service will continue to inspire and guide us all.
Jerry is survived by his wife, 5 children, and 13 grandchildren.
As he entered heaven, it is easy to imagine him being greeted by our Lord and Savior with the words, "Well done, good and faithful servant.”
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