The best grandfathers are known as "papa." Our beloved papa died peacefully at home on December 12, 2009. His 93 years were filled with love, honor and devotion, especially among his family, friends and the Portuguese community. He was a charter member of the Cabrillo Civic Club of San Diego and the San Diego Outboard Motor Club. As a tuna fisherman, he was chief engineer of the Western Pacific and captain of the Frances Marie.

In 1946, he bought into Coast Equipment Company, a marine ship chandlery, and began outfitting San Diego's tuna industry. He later became vice-president of a chandlery named Nuttall-Styris, and then a partner in San Diego Marine Hardware.

As a proud member of the Portuguese-American community, papa dedicated his heart and soul to the United Portuguese S.E.S. hall. He served as vice-president of its board of directors, president of the 1974 Festa do Divino Espirito Santo, and volunteered countless hours of his time, energy and skill, especially during his retirement years.

Papa was married for nearly 65 years to Lilian Azevedo Perry, our grammy. it has been 9 years since she passed, and we take great comfort knowing that papa has joined her in heaven.

He is survived by his son Leslie Thomas Perry (Renée), daughter Carol Perry Holcombe (Mike), eight grandchildren, sixteen great-grandchildren, and seven great-great-grandchildren.

We thank you Papa for being our example of what it means to be a good man, loving husband, devoted father, and the best grandfather imaginable. We shall always remember you, always admire you, and always do our best to make you proud.

A memorial mass will be held at 11am on December 22, 2009, at St. Agnes Parish in Point Loma. We hope you can attend as we celebrate the life of a great man.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Cabrillo Civic Club of San Diego.

Source:
Carol Holcombe/Renée Perry

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