Ben S. Riojas

Rev. Ben Sanchez Riojas, 94, died peacefully on May 2, 2012 surrounded by family as he went to be with his Lord. Ben was born in Goldfinch, TX on November 5, 1917, son of the late Barnabe and Guadalupe Riojas. He is preceded in death by his wife of 56 years Rosie, daughter in law Linda, brothers Robert and Ramiro and sisters Consuelo, Elena and Amelia. He is survived by brothers: Tony, Ruben, and Samuel Riojas and sister, Jovita Cavazos. Ben leaves three children and their spouses: Amelia and husband Paul Cardona, Benny and wife Lucy Riojas, Gina and husband Robert Gauthier. His grandchildren: Rafael and wife Kim Gonzales, Catarina and husband Richard Cron, Charissa and husband Juan Montoya, Benjamin and wife Emily Riojas, Sydnee and Mackenzie Gauthier. Ben's happiest Christmas gift was meeting his great-grandchild Sofie Riojas on Christmas 2011.

In 1941, Ben enlisted in the Army and served as a Ranger in the 2nd Infantry Div. during WWII. In 1944, he was awarded the Purple Heart as he was wounded during the Normandy Invasion.

Following the war, Ben entered the ministry and pastored churches in Baytown, Pasadena, Houston, South Houston, and Rosenberg. He was a member of Templo La Hermosa in South Houston during his later years. Ben also worked at Nabisco when he retired in 1981.

The family would like to extend a special thanks to Rosario Negrete who provided caretaking services to both Rosie and Ben, and to thank the pastors of La Hermosa, Rev. Cervantes and Rev. Gaytan for all their visits. Also, the family wishes to thank the staff and caregivers of ManorCare Webster for their compassion and loving care.

In lieu of flowers, the family would like to request that donations be made to La Hermosa Church, 812 Louisiana St., South Houston, TX 77587.

Visitation with the family will be at South Park Funeral Home, 1310 North Main Street, Pearland, Texas 77581, from 5-8 pm on Sunday, May 6. Burial service to be on Monday, May 7th at 10 am.

www.southparkfunerals.com