Joventino Arce Raguero

June 01, 1948 – March 22, 2026

Joventino “Ben” Arce Raguero was born June 1, 1948 in Oas Albay, Philippines. He was the 2nd son of Luis & Simplicia Raguero. He had an older brother, Roger (deceased) and has a younger brother Steven. Growing up, he was a hard-working student, spending his days studying to earn his degree as a mechanical engineer and working as a salesman for a plastics company. He passes his worth ethics down to his children. After college he worked with his brother, Roger, for Scott paper company. He got married to his wife Nena on Jan 29, 1977 in Our Lady of Lourdes church in Lo Loma, Quezon City. In 1983, he immigrated to the United States with his two young children, Josette & Jerico, to join his wife in California just in time for their third child, Jerome, to be born.

Ben and Nena bought their first home in 1984 in Norwalk, CA. Then they moved to Fontana, CA in 1990 where they were able to pick out the lot and design for their brand-new home. Although it’s been through a kitchen remodel and re-painted, they still call this house home and are one of the few original owners still left in their neighborhood.

Ben’s first job in California was with Acme Lighting company in 1983 and then worked for Amoco from 1984 -1995. He started his own business in 1996 originally called 3J Electric and now currently named 3J Electric Industrial control. His business was successful and he worked as an electrician and electrical contractor until 2023. In 2016, he joined partnership with B Braun as an electrical contractor which lasted until Jan 2023.

Ben and Nena are parishioners of St. John XXIII Catholic Church. Ben was still working as a part time consultant with B Braun until he suffered his stroke, but also found time to enjoy life. He loved watching his children play sports while they were growing up and continued this love by watching his grandkids play sports. Ben loved to travel and was blessed to visit places he’s always dreamed about, such as the Holy Land. He supported all his children in their career choices and was able to see all three of them graduate college. He loved watching all his grandkids play and grow. And no one will ever forget what an avid bowler Ben was and the Lakers number one fan.

Ben is survived by his wife Nena, his children, Josette & Nate, Jerico & Nancy, and Jerome & Stefanie, Steven (brother), and his grandchildren, Allie, Natalia, Jerico Jr., Zoe, Merari, Denzel & Nathaniel. He was Tatay to many including Daija, Leilani & Monet. Ben will be remembered by many friends which he me through his life in church, work, community, travel and bowling. Those that were blessed to know him will always remember Ben for his kindness and generosity.