In this hot August, unexpectedly, almost treacherously, Enrique Pérez Parrilla, one of the most prominent political figures in Lanzarote, has left us. President of the island council on three occasions, regional parliamentarian and mayor of Arrecife. He always stood out for the defense of the territory, there are achievements such as the PIOT or the subsequent moratorium and the sustainable development strategy. To highlight his tireless struggle to integrate territory, culture and assume foreign currents, without losing our idiosyncrasy. He used to say that, in those years of flagrant urban infractions, he missed the demolition of some illegal hotel, to make it clear that land management was paramount. Although the devil surely knocked on his door, he never opened it.
He studied Physical Sciences in Barcelona, arriving in Lanzarote in the early 70s. He worked as a professor at the Blas Cabrera Felipe institutes and in its delegated section, now IES Agustín Espinosa. As a high school mathematics professor, he stood out for his brilliance and demandingness with students, promoting reasoning, scientific curiosity and the development of intelligence.
As a teacher, he was always aware of the difficulties his students encountered also outside the classroom, even if he was no longer their teacher, especially with those from more vulnerable families, informing them about possible aid with which to continue their training. Great teacher, his students said. He was part of the mathematics department of the IES Blas Cabrera, together with Jorge Morales, Isabel Navarro, Mario Ferrer, Virgilio Cabrera......, the main nucleus promoting mathematical activities and driving educational reforms on the Island, such as experimental baccalaureate, LOGSE... Center of reference at the level of the Canary Islands.
Son of a well-known family from Arrecife with a progressive outlook. Honest, discreet and respectful, a man of short distance. Curious, a great conversationalist and listener, open to all opinions. Modest, he practically only had two cars in his life, one was a red Volvo, which announced his presence for many years. He always joined the teaching profession in the intervals in which he did not hold a political position, being able to continue on leave, he never claimed seniority rights when doing so. He enjoyed the company of interlocutors and friends. A chain smoker. Concerned about the problems of others, always ready to help.
With Enrique, a good and upright man leaves, and with him, a part of the recent history of Lanzarote. Rest in peace.
