Daniel Banaka

Daniel D. Benaka



Daniel D. Benaka, age 74, passed away on June 10, 2018 after a prolonged illness. He was born September 4, 1943 in Topeka, Kansas.

Daniel graduated in the 2nd graduating class of St.Pius X High School, and honorably served in the U. S. Navy. Daniel worked at several managerial positions in his lifetime. He owned and operated Guns, Jewels & Tools, and also became a known firearms expert. Daniel was a Fourth Degree Knights of Columbus, a member of Temple Lodge #6 AF&AM, and also a Santa Fe Valley Scottish Rite Mason. As well, Daniel was a member of Ballut Abyad Shrine Temple, Past Chief Engineer of Loco Patrol, and Past Camaxtli of Teocali #44 Order of the Quetzalcoatl.

His loving wife, Leslie Mason-Benaka, survives him. Daniel had treasured friends, among which are life-long friends Gary and Sherrell Schwartzman, and extended family Michael and Jody Thomas Lee; their children, Cassidy and M.J., and the Lou Ann Garner family. Daniel also enjoyed his morning coffee club friends, especially Clint Campbell. Leslie wants to thank Storm Tracy for his unflagging friendship to Daniel.

A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Risen Savior Catholic Church, 7701 Wyoming NE. 87109, on Monday, June 25, 2018 at 3:00 p.m.

In Lieu of flowers, please make donations to Los Angeles Shrine Crippled Children's Hospital C/O Ballut Abyad Temple, 6600 Zuni SE, Albuquerque, New Mexico, 87108. directfuneralservicesabq.com Arrangements by Direct Funeral Services. 2919 4th ST. NW. ABQ. 505-343-8008