01/22/2026
Obituary For Daniel Arthur Perry
Daniel Arthur Perry, born July 29, 1960, in Willows, California, passed away while enjoying one of his favorite pastimes—riding his motorcycle. He leaves behind a legacy of a life well lived. Dan was the beloved son of John and Jessie Perry and a brother to Linda and Larry, Nancy and Jeffrey, John and Patricia, and was a lifelong friend of the Willows community.
Dan attended Willows High School, graduating in 1979, where he was a dedicated four-year athlete in both football and baseball. His love for sports and competitive spirit carried him to Butte College, where he played baseball for two years. During his summers, Dan worked tirelessly fighting fires with the Max One Strike Team, running a chainsaw to help fund his education.
From Butte College, Dan earned a baseball scholarship to Pacific University in Forest Grove, Oregon. After college, he worked on oil rigs in Ventura before returning to Chico State to complete his degree in education.
Dan later pursued a calling to serve his community by putting himself through the police academy at Butte College, graduating in 1987.
Dan served the community proudly as an officer with the Willows Police Department for 10 years. He then transitioned to work for the Glenn-Colusa Irrigation District as a ditch tender for nine years before returning to law enforcement with the Glenn County Sheriff’s Office, where he served for an additional 10 years.
In September 1988, he married the love of his life, Bernie Perry. Together, they built a beautiful life with their children Katie and Bryan, Courtney, Joey and Marissa. Dan and Bernie shared 37 years of marriage filled with love, dedication, and family.
Dan was a proud and devoted “Papa Bear” to four beautiful granddaughters, and he was joyfully anticipating the arrival of his first grandson. Being a grandfather was one of his greatest joys, and his love for his grandchildren was boundless.
Throughout his life, Dan was known for his strong character, goofy personality, and deep devotion to his family.
Dan leaves behind a legacy of service, perseverance, and love that will continue through his family and all who knew him.
A celebration of life for Dan will be held at St. Monica Catholic Church in Willows, California, on January 30, 2026, at 11:00 AM. Followed by interment at the Willows Catholic Cemetery and a reception at the Parrish Hall.