Letter to the Editor: Daniel Perry will be missed

I write in celebration of the life of Daniel Perry. He had a great depth of knowledge of the natural world, especially plants and birds, and was generous is sharing it. As a ranger at Bosque del Apache and in retirement he answered endless questions from children and adults. Many homes and gardens in Socorro county, including the arboretum at Bosque del Apache, have benefitted from his able assistance and care. When talking about a plant, he invariably gave both it’s common and latin name although, if I am an example, the latin rarely stuck. In reference to Johnny Appleseed, I called him Daniel Milkweed seed. He contributed mightily to the Rio Grande corridor’s becoming a “River of Monarchs” in support of that beautiful endangered butterfly’s long migration.

Daniel was a gentle and loving man, caring deeply for his partner, Socorro, and his friends. He could be bossy about what he thought best for you, but he was not possessive. He dropped in on friends often; he was well traveled, and his professional life was rich and varied, but he was most content at home and in his garden.

Socorro’s political scene was enriched by both Daniel’s commitment to voter registration and his strong opinions. Everyone whose life he touched was enriched by his kindness and generosity. He will be missed.

Sandra Noll

Socorro