ABENICIO RAFAEL (BENNY) age 88, a resident of Socorro, beloved husband, father and grandfather died in Albuquerque on Tuesday, May 22, 2012 after an extended illness. Ben was born on March 15, 1924 to Nemesia Maria (Armijo) and Martin Lopez, Jr. in Polvadera, New Mexico. He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister Margo Thompson; brothers Benny and Tranquilino Lopez; son Carl Lopez; and daughter Angelina Margret Lopez-Littell. He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Angelina (Griego) Lopez of Socorro; sons Martin III and wife Elizabeth of Albuquerque, Ralph and wife Linda of Birmingham, Alabama; many grandchildren; great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends. Ben was a 1941 graduate of Socorro High School and entered New Mexico Tech at age 17 where he studied mining engineering. He is a civil engineering alumnus of the University of New Mexico and University of Oklahoma. Ben's college education was interrupted by World War II, when he enlisted in the U.S. Army and fought with the 103rd Division, 411th Infantry "Cactus Division" in the European Campaign, including battles at Ardennes, Rhineland, Central Europe, and the Battle of the Bulge where he was awarded three Bronze Stars with Valor Device for bravery in combat. After receiving an honorable discharge Ben worked as a civil engineer with the State of New Mexico and Susquehanna Engineering, where his profession took him throughout New Mexico, Iowa, Wyoming, Utah, South Dakota, and Texas. He later retired from engineering in 1959 and returned to his hometown of Socorro where he owned and operated White's Auto Store on California Street for many years. Known by many as "Mr. White" he continued his business endeavors with Lopez Home and Auto and Kimo Self Storage until his death. Ben was a long time member of San Miguel Catholic Church where he served as an altar boy in his youth. He was an active member of the Knights of Columbus (59 years), Veterans of Foreign Wars, and American Legion Post 64. A Socorro businessman for over 53 years, he sponsored youth baseball teams and was a Socorro High School athletic and band booster throughout his life. An avid Lobo Basketball fan, he traveled for years with his father, sons, and friends to every home game. He was a loving husband, father and grandfather. He stressed education and entrepreneurship to his children and grandchildren. All of his children and grandchildren attended college. He was an intelligent, generous, loving, gregarious man who enjoyed reading, conversation, and meeting people. The family wishes to extend their heartfelt thanks and appreciation to the doctors, nurses, chaplain, and staff at the Albuquerque V.A. Hospital, especially Dr. Heidi Jochem who patiently treated our father through his final days. A Rosary will be recited on Monday, May 28, 2012 at 7:00 p.m. at San Miguel Catholic Church in Socorro. A Mass of Resurrection will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, May 29, 2012 by Father Andrew Pavlak as Celebrant at the San Miguel Church. Interment will follow in the San Miguel Catholic Cemetery with full military honors. Pallbearers are: Michael "Trinky" Lopez; Chris Lopez; Martin Lopez, IV; Jonathan Lopez; Michael Silva; and Paul Silva; Honorary pallbearers are: Alisa Lopez; Erin Lopez; Audrey Littell; Hayden Lopez; Caine Lopez; and Greg Ortega. To view information or leave a condolence, please visit: www.danielsfuneral.com Ben's care has been entrusted to: Daniels Family Funeral Services 309 Garfield St Socorro, NM 87801 575-835-1530
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