Obituary of Benjamin Mendez

Benjamin Mendez passed away peacefully on July 21st, 2023, at his home surrounded by his loved ones. He is survived by his wife of 60 years Mary, his children Joanne Sosa (Gilbert), Ben Mendez Jr. (Rachel), and Rosanne Carter (Larry Garcia). He is also survived by his seven grandchildren Brittany Sosa (Cameron), Jennifer Sosa, Sarah Carter (Ondre), Kevin Carter (Saryna), Gehrig Mendez (Kyndahl), Kaitie Mendez, and Daniel Garcia. Ben was born in Tolleson AZ to Maria and Alfredo Mendez on August 3rd, 1938. He was the last surviving sibling and was the youngest of seven. In 1947, his family moved from Arizona to Mountain View CA. After graduating high school in 1957, Ben enlisted in the army in 1958 and was stationed in Milwaukee WI. After his army career of four years, he was a Barber for 24 years. He earned his associate degree from Evergreen College and worked for Underwriters Laboratories for 21 years until his retirement in 2000. He married the love of his life Mary in 1962 and built their lives and raised their children in San Jose until they retired in Hollister in 2000. Ben loved to garden, hike, watch the Giants win, and travel with his wife and friends Ruben and Irene. He was a great supporter in his grandchildren’s activities and was their biggest fan. Ben was a loving husband and a wonderful father to his children. He was also a great role model to his grandchildren. He will be dearly missed by all who knew him. Ben was preceded in death by his parents and siblings Ruth Gonzalez, Alfred, Albert, George, David and Joe Mendez. Friends and family are invited to mass at Saint Benedict's church on August 3rd at 11 am at 1200 Fairview Rd. in Hollister.