Salomon Lorenzo Ramos Perez

Salomon Lorenzo R. Perez, age 92, passed away peacefully at his home in Mesilla, New Mexico, on April 18, 2025, surrounded by his wife, four sons, youngest brother Gilbert and other family. He departed this life with the same quiet strength and grace by which he lived.

He was born on August 9, 1932, in Monticello, New Mexico, to Jesus Cota Perez and Beatriz Ramos Perez, and was raised in the copper mining towns of Hurley and Silver City alongside his siblings Johnny, Ruben, Barney, Santa Cruz, and Gilbert.

At the age of 20, Salomon enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Force, where he proudly served for four years and attained the rank of Staff Sergeant. As a member of the pioneering maintenance crew for the B-47 Stratojet, he contributed to a transformative era in military aviation. After his honorable discharge in 1960, Salomon settled in Las Cruces, where he began a distinguished 30-year civilian career at White Sands Missile Range (formerly White Sands Proving Grounds), retiring in 1987.

It was at White Sands where Salomon met the love of his life, Delfina Fresquez. The two were married on November 5, 1960 in Mesilla, and shared over 64 years of marriage rooted in love, faith, and mutual devotion. Together they raised their family in Mesilla, where Salomon built their home and became a dedicated member of the community. Salomon’s family continues to be parishioners of the Basilica of San Albino, carrying on his legacy of faith and devotion.

Salomon’s devotion to public service extended far beyond his professional career. He was a founding director of the Mesilla Community Improvement Association, where he brought pioneering early childhood education to four-year-olds in the community. Under his leadership, the association also developed vital senior services, including hot meal programs, recreational opportunities, and transportation support for Mesilla’s elderly residents.

In addition, Salomon was a longtime volunteer with the Community Action Agency (CAA), serving as Volunteer, Member, and Board Chairman, and later as Director of the CAA Food Bank, where he expanded its outreach to serve families across New Mexico. He also served the Town of Mesilla as a member of the Planning and Zoning Commission and was elected Trustee from 1978 to 1982.

Salomon was also actively involved in supporting his sons’ education. He served with the Parent Teacher Association and as a band sponsor throughout their school years, generously giving his time and energy to help foster their musical development and academic success. His involvement reflected his deep commitment to family, education, and the importance of nurturing talents and interests.

A man of deep integrity and generosity, Salomon will be remembered as a devoted husband, a loving father and grandfather, a proud veteran, and a tireless advocate for his community. He was known for his strong work ethic, kind heart, and unwavering commitment to helping others.

Above all, Salomon was a guiding light and enduring example to his children and family. Through his words and actions, he instilled the values of service, faith, humility, and perseverance. His life demonstrated the power of dedication and love—not just in what he achieved, but in how he uplifted others. His legacy lives on in the lives of his children and grandchildren, who continue to be inspired by his strength of character and his deep sense of responsibility to both family and community.

Salomon is survived by his beloved wife Delfina; his sons Salomon M. Perez (Kimberly), Charles G. Perez (Terry), Daniel L. Perez (Aprille), and Robert J. Perez Sr.; grandchildren Stacey, Naomi, Eva, Ana, Robert Jacob II ("Jake"), Andrew, and Albert Salomon; great-grandchildren Robert ("Bobby") and Evangelina ("Evie"). He is also survived by his siblings Santa Cruz (Aurelia) and Gilbert (Mary Lou).

He was preceded in death by his parents; siblings Johnny, Ruben, and Barney; infant twins Salomon and Luisa Dellia; and grandchildren Robert Andrew and Jacob Alexander.

Salomon's legacy of faith, compassion, and community service will live on through the many lives he touched. He will be dearly missed and forever remembered.

Time, Date, and Location of ServicesA Rosary will be recited at 11 a.m., followed by a Funeral Mass at 11:30a.m. on Friday, April 25, 2025, at the Basilica of San Albino in Mesilla, New Mexico. Interment will follow at the Basilica Cemetery.

Pallbearers:Salomon M. Perez, Charles G. Perez, Daniel L. Perez, Robert J. Perez Sr., Ronald Perez, Rudolph Fresquez

Honorary Pallbearers:John C Padilla, Joseph Fresquez, Steven Giordano, Louie Fresquez, Manion Paul Long