Simon Benavidez Obituary

Simon D. Benavidez was born on October 28, 1934 in Rio En Medio, New Mexico. Simon moved with his family to Avondale, Colorado when he was sixteen. Simon joined the Army in 1954. He was a Korean War veteran. He married his sweetheart, Connie Solano, in January, 1958. They moved to Colorado Springs in 1959. At this time, he was employed at the USAF Academy. Simon continued his civil service employment at Ent AFB, Peterson AFB and then retired from Cheyenne Mtn Air Station in 1989. Simon then went to work as a bus driver and retired from School District #11 after ten years. Simon continued to drive for Winslow Court and Colorado Springs Park & Recreation Department until he retired due to illness in 2009.

Simon and Connie have five children: Cecilia Graves (Keith), Simona Tebbe (Travis), Gloria Villa (Juan), Raymond Benavidez (deceased) and Angelica Gonzalez (Jose). Simon has nine grandchildren: Maria, Racine, Antonyl, Rachael, Jose JR, Simon, Caleb, Justin and Araceli. There are six great-grandchildren: Alessandro, Emeliya, Esais, Angelo, Octavio and Rayanna.

Simon enjoyed fishing and camping. He was a die-hard Denver Broncos fan. Simon was a former member of the Retired Enlisted Association, The American GI Forum, and an usher & bingo volunteer at his churches.

Simon was a kind hearted and good natured person. Simon loved his family gatherings, especially spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Simon will always be loved and truly be missed by all who knew him.

Visitation 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., Thursday, November 13, 2014. Angelus Funeral Directors 1104 S. Circle Dr. Scripture Rosary, 1:30 p.m. Friday, November 14, 2014 followed by Mass of Christian Burial at 2:00 p.m. at Holy Apostles Catholic Church. 4925 N. Carefree Circle. Interment at Evergreen Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Simons name to the Wounded Warrior Project at 1 S. Nevada, Colorado Springs, CO 80903.

Online Condolences at www.angelusfuneraldirectors.com