Born and raised in Compton, CA, Reuben attended St. Albert the Great Catholic School and then Junipero Serra High School, where he enjoyed directing the school play and making the varsity football squad his freshman year. He then graduated in 1977, and briefly studied at El Camino College before beginning his career in the field of electronics and eventually cellular technology. He worked for many years at the former PacTel, AirTouch and Verizon Wireless before retiring.
Prior to retirement, his hobbies included model making and basketball, which he did almost daily at his then local park in South Gate, CA and where he made many lifelong friends. Once retired, he enjoyed baking, karaoke, writing/reciting jokes, tinkering, DIY projects and carpentry, which he utilized in building various, motorized Halloween props, showcasing his house as a Halloween hot spot and neighborhood favorite each year. He was an avid lover of jazz, classic rock, R&B and 90s music; wrestling, boxing, vintage toys/models and classic movies including anything Elvis, James Bond or Sci-Fi related.
His favorite hobby of all was spending time with his family and friends. He famously celebrated and vlogged every Taco Tuesday to share with all. He loved living close to his siblings and his home was an open door to all who were in need. His family, children and beloved granddaughter were his world. He recently grew fond of taking the train to visit his daughter, son-in-law and granddaughter in Hanford, CA, and was increasingly becoming a local favorite there as well. He enjoyed meeting new people and his happiness was contagious to all whom he encountered. He was the life of the party and always ensured a good time, whether it be with a barrage of jokes and silly dances, or by lending a helping hand or ear. He was a devout father, brother, uncle, grandfather, son, cousin, neighbor and friend. And...LA Lakers fan.
Preceded in death by his parents Amiceta and Luis Benavides, and his brother Luis Benavides. He is survived by his son Daniel Benavides, daughter Laura Oliver, son-in-law Aaron Oliver, granddaughter Marley Oliver, sister Rebecca Lopez, brother Robert Benavides, sister-in-law Alma Benavides, nieces Denise and Regina Benavides, nephew David Benavides, great-nephew Adrian Llamas, nephew Luis Benavides Jr, cousin Lucy Martinez and many other cousins, in-laws, nieces, nephews, great-nieces/nephews, neighbors and copious friends. He is an energy that we will never forget, and he will forever be remembered with a laugh or a smile in the hearts of all who knew him.
A memorial service for Reuben will be held Friday, May 5, 2023 from 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM at Funeraria del Angel Pico Rivera, 9107 Washington Blvd, Pico Rivera, California 90660.
Liturgy to begin at 6:00 PM, with eulogy and remembrances from 6:45 PM to 8:00 PM.
A Celebration of Life for Reuben Benavides will be held Saturday, May 6, 2023 from 11 AM to 3 PM at Sorensen Park, 11419 Rose Hedge Dr. Whittier, CA 90606.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.FunerariadelangelMorrows.com for the Benavides family.
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