Beniono (Ben) Gonzales passed away on June 29, 2019 at his home surrounded by his family.

Ben was born June 17, 1939 in Anton Chico, New Mexico to Eduardo and Melitona Gonzales. He was 80 years of age. He attended school at Vroman and Rocky Ford.

In November, 1959, Ben married Tillie Gallegos. They had four sons and two daughters. Ben worked for American Crystal Sugar Factory for over 20 years until it closed. He then went on to do custodial work for Dean Pickle and the Rocky Ford School District retiring in 1995.

Ben loved working in his yard. He had a green thumb and could get anything to grow from his willow trees around his home to his vegetable garden he grew every summer. Ben also enjoyed watching his western movies, Wheel of Fortune, and listening to his Spanish music. He enjoyed being around his children and grandchildren. His family could always count on Ben whenever they needed anything.

After Tillie's death in 1993, he later married Elva Tenorio. She preceded him in death June 2017.

Ben is survived by his daughters, Diana Chavez and Rachel Aragon, sons Steve (Melinda) Gonzales, David Gonzales and Johnny (Andrea) Gonzales, step-son Kenny Tenorio, numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren. Also surviving is brother Torbio Gonzales of Rocky Ford and sister Jane Sisneros of Las Animas

Ben was preceded in death by wives Tillie and Elva, parents Eduardo and Melitona Gonzales, son Richard Gallegos, son in law Charlie Chavez and step-daughter Anna Tenorio.

Ben was deeply loved by his family and will be greatly missed.

A Rosary Service will be held 10:00 AM on Wednesday, July 3rd with the Mass of Christian Burial to follow at 10:30 AM both at Our Lady of Guadalupe/St. Patrick Parish in La Junta, CO with Fr. Henry Wertin presiding. Interment will be in the Valley View Cemetery in Rocky Ford, CO.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Ford - Ustick Funeral Home. Online condolences may be sent to www.fordustick.com.