Nicolas Perez

Nicolas Perez, 74, of Celina, Ohio, passed away on July 6, 2026, at his home in Celina, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on February 29, 1952, in Pharr, Texas, to the late Nicholas S. and Virginia (Castillo) Perez.

Nick served his country in the United States Air Force from 1970 to 1974, including service during the Vietnam War. After his military service, he built a career at Huffy Bicycles, where he worked for 24 years until the plant closed. He then worked in security for Key II out of Troy, providing security for local festivals and hospitals. Of all the events he worked, Country Concert was always his favorite.

An athlete throughout his life, Nicolas played semi-pro football in the 1970s before turning to local softball and karate in the 1980s and '90s. He later returned to semi-pro football with the Lima Warriors, playing until he was 52 years old, followed by a decade coaching the Lima Warriors. Those who knew him well loved to retell one of his most famous stories—the night he wrestled a bear at Flamingo's Night Club.

Nick is survived by his wife, Kathy Perez of Celina, whom he married on March 11, 2011; his sons, Shane Perez of Celina, Shawn Perez of Texas, and Dusty Perez of Celina; his stepdaughters, Alissa Brookhart of Celina, Erika (Ron) Cooper of Florida, and Brittany (TJ) Thitoff of Montezuma; his brothers, Juan Balderez and Max Perez; his sisters, Eva Overman, Mary Madigan, and Patsy Andrews; and his sisters- and brother-in-law, Linda Stott, Laura Billger, and Randy Burd.

He was also blessed with grandchildren: Alisha Derrick, Lea Perez, Callie Perez, and Cody Perez (children of his son Shawn); Layne and Ivy (children of Alissa); Trent, Scarlett, and Easton (children of Erika); and Weston (child of Brittany), along with three great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his brothers, Ruben Perez, Joe Perez, Noel Balderez, and Narcisco Perez; his sister, Jessica Hoskins; and his brother-in-law, George Stott.

Nick will be remembered for his dedication to his family, his years of service to his country and community, and his lifelong love of sports. Those who knew him will always remember that he ended many conversations with the words, "With Respect," a simple phrase that reflected the way he lived his life.

A Celebration of Life honoring Nick will be held at a later date.

Cisco Funeral Homes of Celina and St. Marys are honored to care for Nick and his family. To share condolences or memories, please visit www.ciscofuneralhome.com or the Cisco Funeral Home Facebook page.