John "Chico" Benevides

Chico (John Benevides), 86, a dedicated husband and father and proud Carroll College retiree, died peacefully on October 25th with his wife Ruth and children by his side; where he knew he was going to Heaven to be with his Savior and that he would see his loved ones again.

Chico was born November 1, 1935 in Denver, Colorado, to Mark and Estella (Adele) Benevides. As a young man, Chico traveled to Green Bay, Wisconsin where he met the true love of his life, Ruth (Brannon), while working at a canning factory. She was tossing baby carrots across the conveyor belt mesmerized by his jet black hair and striking features. He had a quiet disposition, a contagious personality, and was a man of his word. They married a short time later and settled down in East Helena. On March 21, 2022 Chico and Ruth celebrated their 46th wedding anniversary.

In 1981, Chico and Ruth purchased their permanent residence in East Helena, which he was so proud to lay stable roots for his growing family. He lived to make Ruth happy and his family comfortable. As a former foundry laborer, Chico was thrilled when he landed employment at Carroll College, where he maintained the facilities, aka "Mopathologist" (his invented title). He was a hard-working man, providing for his large family, and truly enjoyed his work and interaction with the Carroll staff and the diverse students, many of whom he called friends today. Chico's dedication to Carroll included a way to provide an education for his girls. He often was greeted by people on and off campus, he was "Unforgettable" to many. He was honored to retire from Carroll College after 20 years.

Chico enjoyed Montana, allowing him to fish the lakes and rivers, hunting in its thick forest, and parachuting from its big blue skies. In his younger years, Chico had a love for being in the ring, as he was a golden gloves boxer and instructor. Chico lived for adventure which included many skydiving jumps. At home, he enjoyed tinkering in the garage, eating Ruth's authentic Mexican cooking, and most importantly spending time with his family. He had a love for classical western movies and music. Chico was a good man, God-fearing, hard-working, loyal, and respectful.

Chico was predeceased by his parents, Mark and Estelle Benevides, and his two children, John and Shirley Benevides. He is survived by his son Mark, his daughters Adelitta, Lisa (Chris), Debbie, and Katie of Helena. Also surviving are 25 grandchildren and 26 great grandchildren who he loved so very much.

A memorial service will be held in East Helena at Helena Valley Faith Center (Foursquare Church), Friday November 4th at 3pm. 708 E. Groschell Street, East Helena, MT 59635. For those who wish to attend but cannot, please contact Lisa for a link to attend via Zoom. A Go Fund acct has been set up to help with funeral expenses. Cards and condolences would be appreciated and may be sent to Ruth Benevides at 2408 Haystack Drive, East Helena, MT 59635.