Henry Perez

Henry Perez, age 82, of Topeka, KS, passed away peacefully August 15, 2025 at McCrite Health Center in Topeka.

He was born on October 1, 1942, in Topeka, KS, the son of Norbert and Angela (Gutierrez) Perez. Henry attended St. Augustine Minor Seminary in Suffern, NY, before returning to Kansas. He began his working life at Santa Fe and later served as the Lake Shawnee Evening Patrol before beginning his long and distinguished career with the Kansas Highway Patrol, where he rose to the rank of Master Trooper. Henry took great pride in his work and served his community with integrity and dedication throughout his years in law enforcement. After retiring from the Highway Patrol, he continued to stay active by working part-time for McCarthy Motors in Lenexa, KS.

On May 16, 1964, Henry married the love of his life, Patricia R. (Cuevas) Perez, in Topeka. Together, they shared 60 years of a devoted and joy-filled marriage, built on faith, love, and dedication to family. Patricia was truly the center of his world, and their bond was an inspiration to all who knew them.

A man of strong faith, Henry was an active member of Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Lenexa, KS, during the years he lived there, where he attended adoration chapel, served as a Eucharistic Minister, was a member of the Finance Council, and helped with funeral luncheons and other ministries. When he and Patricia moved to Topeka, he became a member of Most Pure Heart of Mary Catholic Church, where he continued to live out his faith and service to others.

Henry found joy in life’s simple pleasures, bowling with friends, tending to his yard and garden, and spending quality time with his family. Whether sharing a meal, celebrating special occasions, or simply enjoying one another’s company, he cherished every moment with those he loved.

He is survived by his siblings: Anna Romero (Pete), Bernie Garza (Frank), Agnes Mendoza (Faustino), Mary Louise Perez (Steve), Ramona Perez, and Jimmy Perez (Patricia); and sister-in-law, Susan Perez. He is also survived by a large and loving extended family of nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife, Patricia, with whom he now shares eternal rest; and his siblings, John Perez, Norbert Perez, Jr., and Espiridion “Frank” Perez (Jennie).

Henry will lie in state from 9:00 to 10:00 A.M., followed by a parish rosary at 10:00 A.M., on Thursday, August 21, 2025, at Most Pure Heart of Mary Catholic Church in Topeka. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:30 A.M., with entombment following at Holy Trinity Mausoleum at Mt. Calvary Cemetery in Topeka.

Memorial contributions may be made in Henry’s memory to Elara Caring Hospice and/or Most Pure Heart of Mary Catholic Church. Contributions may be mailed or left with the funeral home.

The family of Henry would like to thank the nurses and staff at McCrite Plaza, as well as Elara Caring Hospice, for their exceptional care.

To share a memory or to leave condolences, please visit www.brennanmathenafh.com.

Arrangements entrusted to Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home, 800 SW 6th Ave., Topeka, KS 66603.

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