BENJAMIN MATA

1948 - 2025

BENJAMIN "BENNY" MATA

Dec. 14, 1948 – Aug. 17, 2025

It is with great sadness and love that we announce the passing of Benjamin (Benny) Mata, who departed into the gentle embrace of God on August 17, 2025. Benny passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his family and loved ones.

Benny was born in Brawley, California, on December 14, 1948. He attended schools in Calipatria, CA, and was an avid basketball player, playing varsity all four years of high school. After he graduated from Calipatria High School, Benny married his high school sweetheart, Rosemary Bernales, on July 8, 1968, and together their love created a family of one daughter and two sons. He was also a co-founder of the Brown Berets in Imperial Valley.

Benny is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Rosemary; daughter, Priscilla (Andre) Rader; sons, Benny Jr. (April) and Rene Mata; 12 grand-children, Jasmine Kimball, Jamon Toloumu, Jallen Kimball, Tinoa Santes, Alex Mata, Timothy Ashten, Rudy Mata, Jesse Mata, Ricky Mata, Johnathan Mata, Makaio Mata, and Faith Mate; and 7 great-grandchildren, Kawika Dasyzie, Kanani Santes, Sofia Ashton, Deborah Ashton, Hezekiah Ashton, Elijah Mata, and Josiah Mata, with one on the way. He is also survived by his brothers, Louis (Jane) and Tony Mata, and sister, Margie Pizano; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and extended family. Special appreciation and recognition go to Pastor Darren, caregiver, Liz Mata, and his best friend, Baby Girl.

Benny was preceded in death by his father and mother, Pomposo and Antonia Mata; brothers, Rudy Gutierrez, Pomposo Mata Jr., and Jesse Mata; sister, Mary (Licha) Cortez; niece, Gloria Cortez; and nephew, Nate Mata.

Benny lived and worked in Southern and Northern California, employed at Imperial Valley Lumber Yard in Calipatria, Big Valley Lumber in Modesto, and Bauer Lumber in Carlsbad. The most rewarding job he had was with Goodwill industries.

Benny had many passions throughout his life, the foremost being his faith and love for our Lord and Savior. In 1999, he turned his life to Jesus Christ and became a true servant of God, evangelizing His word to the poor, youth, elderly, homeless, and all those in need throughout the San Diego area, as well as Tijuana, and Ensenada. Benny was a devoted member of the New Vision Christian Ministry and thanked God for the blessings bestowed upon him. He attended Bible College, became an ordained minister in 2000, and earned a degree from Clown College, entertaining children in youth ministry. Benny was a coach and trainer for his sons while participating in P.A.L. Boxing in Turlock for over 10 years. He took great pleasure in listening to oldies, such as Santana, and was a loyal fan of the San Diego Padres. Benny also enjoyed fishing in the canals of Imperial Valley and off the pier in Oceanside, as well as on lakes in Strawberry, California, gardening, camping, swimming, and taking car rides and walks with his beloved Rosemary, whom he affectionately called 'Pachita.' His love for his family was unconditional, and he provided them with sound and constructive advice throughout their lives.

The family expresses heartfelt gratitude to the medical staff of Palomar Hospital, Sharps, and Kaiser Permanente in San Marcos, the Sun Crest Hospice group; all the pastors, ministers, loved ones, and friends for their prayers, whose compassion, love, and support sustained Benny during his final days. Benny leaves a great legacy and will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

A Celebration of Life will be held on September 27, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at First Lutheran Church, 1410 Foothill Drive, Vista, CA 92084.