Benjamin Barraza

1936 - 2013

Benjamin Barraza, age 76, passed away in Phoenix, Ariz., February 1, 2013, with loved ones by his side. Ben was born at home in Ojai on November 12, 1936, to Fred Barraza and Maria Dominguez, one of eleven children.

Ben was a boy scout as a youth and especially enjoyed fishing and hiking. He graduated from Nordhoff High School in 1954, where he was a good student and excelled in sports. Serving as co-captain for the football team and being elected home-coming king were among the high points.

Ben worked picking oranges during his youth, later becoming crew foremen. He was employed with the U.S. Forest Service in the late 50's and worked for many years in concrete construction.

Ben had two children with Ricky Medina between 1958 and 1960. He married Judy Evans in 1962. They lived in Ojai with their children before moving to Meiners Oaks in 1975.

Ben had a reputation as a nonconformist. He embraced the hippie counterculture of the late 1960's and was an unlikely candidate for the Ojai City Council in the early 70's. He was known for his generosity, often providing a place to stay to someone in need. Ben had a passion for watching and playing sports, was active in local softball leagues and played both pool and poker competitively. He enjoyed rock music and good conversation with family and friends. Ben moved to Phoenix, Ariz., in 1992, to join some of his family members. In his later years, he took pleasure in recounting the events of his life in Ojai.

Ben is survived by siblings, Arthur, Lily, Elizabeth, Sally, Vincent, Marilyn, Daniel and Gilbert; his six children, Kathy, Ben Jr., Eric, Cristi, Andrea and Elena; as well as his fourteen grandchildren; and his loving ex-wife, Judy, with whom he remained close until his death. He was preceded in death by siblings, Freddie and Emma.

A memorial will be held for Ben in Ojai on March 30, 2013. For more information email barrazamemorial@gmail.com