With profound sadness and heavy hearts, the Perdomo family announces the passing of Sarah Gonzalez, a cherished leader, mentor, and friend who dedicated more than 32 years of her life to the company.
From the earliest days of production in Nicaragua, Sarah was more than an exceptional factory manager—she was a guiding light. Her dedication, warmth, and unwavering commitment helped shape the very heart and soul of our operations. She treated every team member like family and led with grace, humility, and strength.
“Sarah wasn’t just an essential part of the company; she was family,” said Nick Perdomo Jr., President and CEO of Perdomo Cigars. “I loved her like a second mother. Whether it was making sure I had a hot meal after a long day at the factory or showing genuine concern for me and my family, she was always there. She knew our children from the time they were babies and stood with us through every milestone. Her love for people and the craft of premium cigar making was unmatched, and our quality has consistently been the envy of the industry. I must thank her and my father for that.”
Before joining Perdomo Cigars, Sarah spent decades as a master roller at the famed H. Upmann factory in Havana, Cuba, where her craftsmanship earned her wide respect. Her reputation for exceptional craftsmanship was unmatched. “She loved Nicaragua, its people, and especially the rich tobaccos grown here. It was her passion,” said Nelson Cuba, Operations Manager. “Under her leadership, our factory culture became—and remains—the very best. She always said our customers deserve nothing less. I will miss her dearly.”
“Sarah was like a second mother to me,” added Janine Perdomo, COO. “Her warmth, loyalty, and especially her big heart defined her. She truly loved our people and treated everyone like family. Her kindness touched every corner of Perdomo Cigars, and we will always carry her memory with us.”
Arthur Kemper, Vice President of Perdomo Cigars, reflected, “Sarah was truly special—loving, strong, and deeply caring. Her wisdom guided us through decades of growth, and her presence will be missed every single day.”
“Sarah was like a grandmother to my sister Natalie and me, and we loved her dearly,” shared Nicholas Perdomo III, National Director of Sales. “I can say without hesitation that no one in the world ran premium cigar production the way she did. She was the greatest cigar roller of her time. I am profoundly grateful not only to have been trained by her, but also to have known her and to have been loved by her. I will carry her lessons with me always and strive to honor her legacy and make her proud.”
To honor Sarah’s extraordinary legacy, a memorial gathering will be held at the Perdomo Cigar Factory in Nicaragua. Sarah Gonzalez will be remembered not only as a master roller and factory manager, but as the pillar of our company—a second mother, grandmother, and the embodiment of love, loyalty, and dedication.
“May she rest in peace, as she will forever remain in our hearts,” love, Nick Perdomo.
In 2015, our author Simon Lundh had the opportunity to meet Sarah Gonzalez in person and spend time with her. Read “One Day in the Life of Sarah Gonzalez” here.
