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Ben Ray Cardenas

Ben Ray Cardenas

May 5th, 1943 - January 3rd, 2024

Biography


Benjamin Reynaldo “Papa” Cardenas May 5, 1943- January 3, 2024. 


Ben was born in Dawson, NM on May 5, 1943 and went to be with his loving Savior Jesus Christ on January 3, 2024. Ben served in the New Mexico Army National Guard for 34 years, retiring as a decorated Major in 1994. He was a beloved member of the Santa Fe and Taos communities and a hard-working Taos rancher with his dear brother-in-law Andy Martinez for over 60 years. He is survived by his most beloved wife, Eleanor, loving children, Barbara Wolf (Husband David) and Thomas (Wife Rosalyn), adoring grandchildren, Danielle, Ryan, Benjamin, Caleb, and Bethany, with their spouses, and loving friends and family including siblings, Dolores, Andy, Rosie, Patsy, Richard, John, Manuel, Andy Martinez with their spouses and children whom he loved dearly and preceded in death by his loving sister Anna. The world has lost the most incredible man with the most joyous laugh, and he will be missed dearly. The military memorial service will be on Friday, January 12 at the Santa Fe National Cemetery at 9:00 a.m. followed by a memorial service and reception at the Santa Fe Women's Club at 10:30. 

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About

Name Ben Ray Cardenas
Date of Birth May 5th, 1943
Date of Death January 3rd, 2024
Cemetery

Memorial

Cemetery
Funeral Home Rivera Family Funeral Home - Santa Fe
Address 417 Rodeo Road
Santa Fe NM 87505
United States

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Carmen Cordova published a tribute .

Dear Eleanor , I’m so sorry for the loss of your sweetheart. I know how much you loved your hunny. He loved you . I will always cherish our friendship. May he rest in peace. God bless you hunny. Please take care.. luv you Carmen Cordova

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Bernadette Casias published a tribute .

Mrs. Eleanor my heart just fall to pieces after learning of the passing of your beloved husband Ben. I just can't image what your going through im so choked up for words to comfort you but please know I have you in my prayer's

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Lorraine. Eugenia Sanchez published a tribute .

Lina, I am so sorry to learn of Ben's passing. He was one of my favorite persons to meet up with and to have a pleasant conversation with both of you. It always gave my heart a lifting. I wish I could be in Santa Fe for his funeral, but I will be praying for him (and you, my beloved friend). Love you, Lina. Ben was my brother Christopher's God brother whose anniversary is today (1 year). Lorraine Sanchez

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Ramona And James Martinez published a comment .

Eleanor and family, James and I were so sad to hear about Ben’s passing. He was a wonder man and will be greatly missed. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. May God give you strength in this time of sadness. Sending you all love, hugs and prayers.

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Ernie Trujillo published a tribute .

Praying for the family and am sorry we could not attend.

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Sam Valencia published a tribute .

Ben was always kind and gracious to me. So glad to have known him and will miss his smile. God Bless Lena and family

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Anthony Velarde published a tribute .

My condolences to the family of Ben my friend. Always Anthony Velarde

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Marlene Montoya published a comment .

I had the great privilege of working for Major Dad as we called him. My condolences to Lina and the rest of his family. May he RIP!

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Natalie Trujillo published a tribute .

Rest in Peace Primo! Say hello to all the Familia!

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Tony A Rivera published a comment .

I was with the National Guard when I met Benny. We became good friends and it was a real pleasure to converse with him and enjoy his continuous laughter. Rest in peace my friend. SFC Tony Rivera

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Sheila Grainger published a tribute .

Benny, Lina and I have been friends since childhood. I am so very sorry to hear of his passing. He always had a smile on his face with something kind to say. My sincere condolences to the whole family. I am unable to be in Santa Fe on Friday, but will be there in spirit with love, thoughts and prayers.
Sheila Grainger

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Carmella M Romero published a tribute .

Ben was a neighbor and friend of ours for near 50 years. He was a sincere man with a sincere heart who loved his Eleanore and family more than anything. We will miss seeing him drive up the street and on my walk stopping to talk to him and Lina. We will miss you Ben! Godspeed

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Nancy Metcalfe published a tribute .

My prayers for the entire family during this difficult time ~

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Fred Van Winkle published a tribute .

I have known Benny for many years, he was a great friend, soldier and a true gentleman. He will be missed. May the Peace that passeth understanding be with his loved ones.

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