Oscar C. Benavidez, 89, resident of Hurley, NM entered eternal rest on Friday, February 16, 2018 at his home, surrounded by his loving family. Oscar was born on May 7, 1928 in Rodey, NM to Lorenzo and Juanita Benavidez. Oscar grew up in Hatch, NM where he worked on the family farm, ranch and dairy. He married Natalia Torres on February 17, 1948. Oscar and Natalia made their home in Hurley where he began his career with Kennecott Copper Mine and after 35 years, retired as a foreman at the Refinery, Loading and Casting Department.
Oscar was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting, fishing, and camping with his family. He could often be found working in his lush garden, caring for his horses, and enjoying the fresh air from his porch. Oscar was always happy to give gardening tips to whomever would ask, and was sure to send his visitors home with the fresh fruits and vegetables he grew. He had the ingenuity to fix anything that broke and create tools that made his life easier. When he wasn't outdoors, he could be heard playing his twelve string for his wife and family. When Oscar was with family and friends, he never missed an opportunity to make them laugh. His family will miss the stories he shared of his past adventures, which they loved listening to.
Oscar is survived by his daughters, Nora Ann Holguin (Albert), Lovina Sue Polomski, Debra Winborn (Waldo) and Belinda Jane Benavidez; a son, Gary Victor Benavidez (Loretta); 14 grandchildren, Albert Leroy Holguin, Gabriel Anthony Holguin, Joshua Adam Holguin, Gary Victor Benavidez II, Victoria Lee Benavidez, Hydie Cherie Polomski, Jasmine Shel Polomski, Boudica Natashia Polomski, Jeremiah Oscar Benavidez, Shad Kasem Gore, Brenten Isaiah Gore, Tamera Shay Lucero Sweeney, Tashina Laree Lucero, Bria Chantelle Lucero; 21 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandson as well as numerous cousins, nephews and nieces. He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Natalia T. Benavidez; his parents, Lorenzo and Juanita Benavidez; brothers George, David, and Ubaldo; a son-in-law, John Polomski.
Visitation will begin at 6 PM Wednesday, February 21, 2018 in Baca's Funeral Chapel, Hwy 180 at Delk Drive in Silver City where Recitation of the Holy Rosary is scheduled for 7 PM. Family and friends will join together to celebrate the Mass of the Christian Burial at 10:30 AM Thursday, February 22, 2018 in Infant Jesus Catholic Shrine, 204 Cortez Avenue in Hurley with Reverend Francisco Diaz officiating. The Rite of Committal and Interment will follow at 2:30 PM at Garden of Memories Cemetery where he will be laid to rest alongside his wife.
Serving as casket bearers will be Gary Benavidez, Gary Benavidez II, Leroy Holguin, Gabriel Holguin, Joshua Holguin, Shad Gore, Brenten Gore, and Tashina Lucero. Honorary bearers will be Hydie, Jasmine, Boudica, Jeremiah, Victoria, Tamera, and Bria.
The Benavidez Family has entrusted their loved one to the care of Baca's Funeral Chapels, 300 E. Boutz Road, Las Cruces 527-2222. Your exclusive providers for "Veterans and Family Memorial Care." For online condolences logon to www.bacasfuneralchpaelslascruces.com