Gabriel Richard Perjessy, 82

Gabriel Richard Perjessy, 82, was born on June 20, 1943, in Budapest, Hungary. At 9 years old, he and his family immigrated to the United States in 1952, after World War II. After arriving at Ellis Island, and with the help and sponsorship of the First Congregational Church of Billings, they settled safely in Billings, where he grew up.  

He spent his undergraduate years at Tulane University in New Orleans, where his love for crawdads and oysters flourished. His dental school years were then spent at Baylor University in Texas. Life then took him to practice dentistry in the army for three years at Fort Knox in Louisville, Kentucky. This is where he would meet his wife, Terry. 

He always knew he wanted to end up back in Montana and spoke of the beauty of the Flathead Valley. Terry joined him on this new journey back to Montana, where he would start a thriving dental practice and raise two daughters, Meagan and Rachel.  

He took pride in his work. He loved the artistry that dentistry can provide. His love of classical music led to the role of first board member and president of the Glacier Symphony. But most importantly, he lived his life with a tremendous amount of kindness, love and patience. He never met someone he did not want to help. He offered kind words and guidance that made people feel safe. 

His love for his wife and daughters was immeasurable. He and his wife chose to raise their daughters with a love that was/is so unique, and in return, Meagan and Rachel were able to hold a relationship where they adored him in return. He shared love freely with the world, and he has now returned home to God and that very love. His family and friends feel his absence immensely.  

He leaves behind his wife, Terry; daughters, Meagan and Rachel; sons-in-law, Gavin and Joey; and grandchildren, Callahan, Mira, Elek and Oliver.  

A memorial service will be held privately on March 14. Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home is caring for the family.