Emilio 'Mel' R. Benavidez

Emilio “Mel” R. Benavidez was born in Pharr, Texas to Lorenzo Benavidez and Erminia Salinas Benavidez on November 5, 1938.

On September 12, 2009, with music rocking the neighborhood, Mel entered into his well earned rest.

Mel always had an open door for those who needed it. His kitchen was open 24/7 and the food that came out of it was the best. He loved family and friends and was the life of the party. Mel was always the first one on the dance floor and the last one to leave – song and dance were part of his wonderful personality. He was an extremely hard working and dedicated man who rarely missed a day of work. He worked for the same company for over 35 years.

We will miss everything about him. Humming a tune and tapping his foot to the rhythm of song- will forever be engrained in our memories. Rock on Mel.

Mel’s smile and tapping foot continue to be cherished by; Janet, his wife of 26 years, his two sons Timothy (Donna) and Mark (Lory); step-children Linda, Dan, Janie, Raymond, Laurie, and Troy (Mel’s bodyguard); his grandchildren Jamen, Julian, Jacob and Rebecca; as well as 15 other grandchildren and five great grandchildren who all loved their Papa. His brothers Rudy and Daniel and numerous nieces and nephews all share happy memories of their times laughing and eating at Mel’s house, with his final year being spent at Wisteria Cottage being cared for, with love and laughter by his nieces, Sylvia and Nicole.

Joining Mel at an eternal party are; his father and mother, sisters Nellie and Lorenza, four nephews, a sister-in-law, and his infant son Richard Romero.

Dad’s life wasn’t perfect, but really whose is?

He worked and played hard til the end.

The test of a man, he would pass without doubt

His honor we will always defend.

His love for his family and all of his friends

Was apparent every day

His appetite for life was truly a gift

We wish he had more time to stay

His memory will constantly be part of those thoughts

That make us smile, then probably cry

His smile contagious, his battle courageous

We love you Dad-peace and good-bye.

Written by his loving son, Tim

A Celebration Service of Mel’s life will be held at noon, Saturday, September 19, 2009 at 9004 A Bong Loop, Moses Lake, WA. Arrangements are in care of Kayser’s Chapel and Crematory, Moses Lake. Please sign the book or leave a note for the family at www.kayserschapel.com.