ARTHUR BENAVIDEZ

ARTHUR BENAVIDEZ
March 21, 1937 – October 14, 2025
Known as "Booza" to his early friends, the origin of the nickname seems to be lost to history (or maybe one of you will know). But it can easily be translated as "nice," "kind," "thoughtful," "caring," "loving," "fun-loving," and "happy." Art was all of those-and more.
His daughters and grandchildren tell stories of his kindness and support. A true friend to all, Art had a rare gift for maintaining lifelong connections and a unique way of seeing the best in people. That generosity of spirit is what so many will remember.
Art was a Santa Fe native, born on March 21, 1937. He attended St. Michael's High School and served in the U.S. Army from 1958–1961, stationed at Camp Kaiser in Korea. After returning home, Art continued his service in the Army Reserve and was called back to duty during the Berlin Crisis, stationed at Fort Smith, Arkansas.
After his military service, Art worked at the Santa Fe New Mexican print shop for 16 years. He then joined the State Highway Department and retired in 1997.
Art is survived by his sister, Cecelia Koroneos (Manuel); daughters, Carla Montoya (Lloyd) and Marsha Thurlow (Dan); grandchildren, Alyssa Otero, Vanessa Vigil, Miranda Saiz, Marcos Saiz, Alejandro Canett, Cooper Baldwin, and Morgan Baldwin; and great-grandchildren, Weston Baldwin, Josephine Baldwin, and Dominik Otero-Latella. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews who adored him.
Art was the son of Louise Castellano. A special thank-you to his niece Luana for her compassion and dedication in caring for our father.
A Rosary will be held at Berardinelli Family Funeral Service at 6:00PM on Thursday, October 30, 2025. Services will take place at 11:00AM on Friday, October 31 at Sagebrush Christian Church, 3405 Vereda Baja, Santa Fe, NM 87507.
Interment will follow at 1:30PM at Santa Fe National Cemetery.
A Celebration of Life reception will be announced afterward.