Benjamin Andres Paul

In Loving Memory of Ben “Benny” Paul 

July 29, 1976 – July 10, 2025

Benjamin Andres Paul was born on July 29, 1976, in San Salvador, El Salvador. The blonde-haired, green-eyed boy who spoke only Spanish, moved to Patterson, California in 1981. There, he quickly formed lifelong friendships filled with adventure, purpose and endless laughter.

Ben graduated from Patterson High School in 1994, where he was a four-year wrestler. He continued his education at San Diego State University, earning a BA in Liberal Arts and Sciences with a focus in History. He began his professional career in finance with Countrywide Lending before returning to his roots in the Central Valley of California in 2008. He loved all sports, gardening, traveling the world and chance encounters with strangers. His zest for life made him a joy to be around.

Ben was very active in the wrestling community and a mentor to many young wrestlers. He had a passion for helping to build stronger teams and visited many local high schools, volunteering to run their clinics. Ben poured his heart into helping young wrestlers grow on and off the mat. He was known for opening up his home to a group of high school wrestlers attending a local camp, making it possible for them to participate. Ben traveled to many college campuses to watch wrestling matches and offer support and encouragement to the sport he loved so deeply.

Beyond wrestling, Ben was an avid golfer and proud member of the Oakdale Golf & Country Club. He had a deep appreciation for good food, a well-crafted drink and the company of friends. His contagious laugh could brighten any space, and his generous spirit left an indelible mark on everyone he met.

To know Ben was to love him. His presence lit up every room and he had a remarkable gift for making others feel seen, heard and valued. With each interaction—whether a longtime friend or a new acquaintance—Ben left people feeling better than before they met him.

Ben is preceded in death by his parents, Delett “De” Paul and Marilyn “Lindy” Paul. He is survived by his sister, Elena Ralph of Bellevue, WA; brother-in-law, Justin Ralph; nephews, Ryder and Rowan Ralph and countless friends, whose lives he profoundly touched.

He leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness and cherished memories that will be deeply missed.

A Celebration of Life will be held in Ben’s honor on Saturday, August 2nd at 11:30AM at Lopes Orchard De Paul Center in Patterson, CA. All are welcome to attend.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Ben Paul Memorial Wrestling Scholarship to support a sport and community that meant so much to him.

Please make checks payable to: Oakdale Joint Unified School District Mail to:168 South 3rd Ave Oakdale, CA 95361.

Services conducted by Hillview Funeral Chapel, Patterson.