Benmar was born on August 13, 1953 in Subic Bay, Zambales, Philippines to Benjamin and Marina Felizardo. His sister, Marian May was born in April of 1955. Later that year he traveled to the United States by boat with his mom and infant sister while their dad served in the U.S. Navy. In May of 1956 his brother Reuben was born. After living in the U.S. from 1955-1966 the family relocated back to the Philippines for two years. In late 1968 they eventually moved back to the United States. Benmar grew up in National City, CA. In June of 1969, his baby sister Marissa was born. Benmar graduated from Sweetwater High School in 1971, where he received a Baseball Scholarship for Harvey Mudd College in Claremont, CA. He did not accept the scholarship. Instead he attended SDSU for a few years while working at his parents 7-11 in Chula Vista. From 1974-1990, Benmar also enjoyed playing softball with his closest friends through the Phil-Am League.
In 1973 he met Marie Custodio. They later married on June 11, 1977. Benmar and Marie welcomed their first child, Monique, in July of 1978. Benmar Jr (BJ) was born in September of 1980, and Nicholas was born in October of 1991. From 1979-1989, Benmar worked as a Farmers Insurance Agent and owned a 7-11 with Marie in San Diego. Then he decided to pursue his passion for music by creating his first band, One Night Stand. In 1992 he started his career at the DMV. However, Benmar did not let go of his music. He continued his passion as the Founder and Band Leader of Makai. The rest is history… Makai traveled to Yokota, Japan, played on U.S. Navy ships, did private events, headlined SeaWorld’s Summer Nights program, and helped open up many different bars/venues in San Diego. Makai paved the way for many bands to come. Eventually he retired from the band in 2010, playing his last gig at the Viejas Dream Catcher Lounge. Four years later he retired from the DMV, but then found himself back in the music scene as a booking agent for local bands. Benmar booked bands for Viejas Casino and Harrah’s Casino until the day he passed. During the last few years he also shared a new hobby of Succulent Gardening with his siblings.
Benmar loved nothing more than his grandchildren. He was actively involved in all aspects of their lives. For the most part, he just loved spending time with them and taking them on vacations to places like Hawaii and Disneyland. He was the best Grandpa. His grandkids adored him and will miss him tremendously.
Benmar is survived by his loving wife of almost 41 years, Marie, his daughter, Monique and son in-law, Tony, his son BJ and daughter in law, Maricar, his son Nick and daughter in-law, Cassy, and his grandchildren: Kayla, Mikey, Noah, Ashlyn, Arya, and Mia. He is also survived by his brother, Reuben and sister in-law, Emma, and sister, Marissa. Benmar was preceded in death by his parents, Benjamin and Marina, and his sister May.
Per Benmar’s wishes, his remains will be cremated and there will not be a church service or burial. The family is holding a public viewing at Glen Abbey on Saturday, June 2, 2018 from 5pm-9pm.
