Michael A. Peralta, 79, of Stoneville, North Carolina, passed away on Tuesday, June 3, 2025.He is survived by his beloved wife of 51 years, Velma Peralta of Stoneville, NC; his son, Joseph Peralta and husband Jose of Long Beach, California; and his daughter, Andrea Ludt and husband Sean of Stoneville, NC. He also leaves behind his grandson, Jacob Ludt, and granddaughters, Jessica and Carolynn Ludt, all of Stoneville, NC.
Michael is lovingly remembered by his nephew, Christopher Arzate and wife Jada of Silver City, NM and grandnephews Austen Saxton, Devon Arzate, and Ryan Arzate also of Silver City New Mexico.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Rosendo and Lucy Peralta; his sister, Marylou Castro and her husband Arturo; his nephew, Eric Arzate; and his grandnephew, Nicholas Arzate.
Born in Tehachapi, California, Michael was raised in the Chihuahua Hill neighborhood of Silver City New Mexico. A 1964 graduate of Silver High School, he proudly served his country in the U.S. Army, stationed in Italy.
In 1969, Michael began his professional career with Aqua-Lung U.S. Divers, a division of The Jacques Cousteau Society. He dedicated 35 years to the company, retiring in 2004.
Michael loved his family deeply and found joy in the simple pleasures of life. He enjoyed working on his small farm, spending time at home with loved ones, visiting his son in California, watching his grandchildren play sports, and shopping at Home Depot with his wife.
The Holy Rosary will be held on Friday, September 5 at 11:00am, at Terrazas Funeral Chapels, recited by Dr. Gilbert Arizaga. The Memorial Mass will be commencing at 12:30pm, at Santa Clara Catholic Church, with Father Casmir Anozie officiating. He will be laid to rest at 2:00pm, with his fellow comrades at Fort Bayard National Cemetery, where he will receive Full Military Honors.
Pallbearer, Jacob Ludt. Honorary pallbearers, Austen Saxton, Devon Arzate, Ryan Arzate, Adam Silva, Jessica Ludt, Carolynn Ludt
Michael will be remembered for his quiet strength, devotion to his family, and the love he shared with all who knew him.
Arrangements are with Terrazas Funeral Chapels and Crematory "Trust care for the ones you love" ~ 575-537-0777. To send condolences, visit www.terrazasfuneralchapel.com.
