Benjamin M. Soltero, 79, of Old Mesilla, passed away peacefully on Friday, August 31, 2007 at his home surrounded by his loving family. Ben or "Chamin" as he was affectionately known was born on March 22, 1928 in Old Mesilla to Leonardo O. and Antonia M. Soltero. He served honorably in the U.S. Navy during World War II and retired from Civil Service at White Sands Missile Range after 34 years of service. Ben loved God and truly appreciated the gift of life. He loved nature and enjoyed fishing, hunting and going camping with his family. His beautiful smile and the twinkle in his eyes would light up a room, which drew people to him. His many acts of kindness will be fondly remembered by his family, neighbors, and friends. In his later years he truly enjoyed the company of many friends from the Mesilla Senior Citizen Center, passing his time teaching some to play pool and enjoying some challenging games with others. One year he was the city "Champ" of the Senior Citizens Pool Tournament. His love for music also was unsurpassing. The guitar was his favorite instrument and thus instilled that love to his son, Gilbert by teaching him to play it skillfully.
He will forever be in our hearts and will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, uncle and friend.
He is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Jennie M. Soltero of the family home; two daughters, Yolanda S. Fitzgerald and husband, Charles of El Paso, Texas, and Patricia S. Sanchez and husband, Frank of Mesquite; one son, Gilbert M. Soltero and wife, Velia also of Mesquite; four grandchildren, Jeremy B. Sanchez, Gilbert B. Soltero and wife, Lourdes, Erika K. Soltero and Gregory Fitzgerald; three brothers, Robert M. Soltero and wife, Maria, Chano M. Soltero and wife, Bertha all of Las Cruces and George Soltero of Mesilla; five sisters, Ramona S. Bledsoe of Albuquerque, Inez Hernandez, Maggie Lucero and husband, David all of Las Cruces, Becky Clayton and Sylvia Dater both of Phoenix, Arizona. He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Lalo M. Soltero.
Visitation for Mr. Soltero will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, September 5, 2007 in Baca's Funeral Home, 300 E. Boutz Road, where the Funeral Discourse will begin at 7 p.m. Family and friends may also visit from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m., Thursday, September 6, 2007 at which time the Funeral Cortege will depart to Hillcrest Memorial Gardens Cemetery for the Final Discourse to begin at 10 a.m. with Elder Vince Thomas presiding.
Serving as casket bearers will be Jeremy B. Sanchez, Gilbert B. Soltero, Erika K. Soltero, Rich Lara, Henry Lara and Donald Frietze. Honorary bearers will be Richard Lara, Tomas Soltero, Patrick Lara and Leonardo M. Soltero.
The Soltero Family has entrusted their loved one to the care of Baca's Funeral Home to direct Funeral Services.
Please visit the online guest book at www.lcsun-news.com.
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