Benjamin Caraballo Jr.

Ben “Yuyo” Caraballo was born on December 8, 1962, in Cleveland, Ohio to Benjamin and Manaced Caraballo. Entering this world just hours after his beloved cousin Gloria and 20 days before his sister Maria’s first birthday.

He left Cleveland at 18 to join The United States Marine Corps and begin his long journey of meeting people who changed his life as much as he changed theirs. While stationed at Fort Leavenworth working at the military prison, he met Tina Lewis and had two daughters. Though divorced, Ben and Tina remained friends.

After his time in the Marine Corps he stayed in the Kansas City area and worked at Hallmark Cards and made lifelong friendships that became more like family. He transitioned his family to Edwardsville, IL to begin his 20+ year career with the Federal Bureau of Prisons. The Bureau took Ben from Illinois to Denver Colorado to finally Washington DC where he retired in 2018.

Upon retiring his heart took him back home to Cleveland. He is preceded in death by his father and mother, and his beloved cousin Gloria Caraballo. He leaves behind his sister Maria Caraballo, daughters Allysia Caraballo Cezar and Alana Caraballo Rooney, and 3 grandchildren. He will be missed beyond measure.

Family and friends are welcome for a Celebration of Life service on Friday, April 18, 2025 from 1-5PM at American Legion Post 91, 91 American Legion Pkwy., Berea, Ohio 44017. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that all donations are to be made in Benjamin’s memory to American Legion Post 91.