Roberto Benavidez Reyna
Roberto Benavidez Reyna
Roberto Benavidez Reyna, "Big Bob" a long time resident of Moses Lake passed away April 10, 2012 to join the love of his life, Viola Quintanilla Reyna. Viola passed on March 10, 2012. Roberto was surrounded by his loving family.
Roberto was born on February 18, 1936 in La Feria, TX. He was born to the late Pablo and Santos Reyna. He was the second oldest of nine children. His siblings include Santiago Reyna "Chago," Pablo Reyna (deceased), Gloria Castillo, Soila White, Lupe Flowers, George Reyna, Ugeno Reyna, and Rosie Ortiz. As migrant workers, the family travel from Texas to Montana, Arizona, Wyoming, California, and Washington. Roberto started working at a young age to help support the family. His first job as a boy was as a caddy for a local golf course in Raymondville, Texas. He caddied with his older brother, Chago. Growing up they were inseparable. On the weekends they would put their dancing shoes on and go out on the town together.
In 1955 Roberto met his future wife, Viola, in Crewport, WA. They married in 1956 in California which united the Reyna and Quintanilla family. They both grew up moving from one labor camp to another as migrant workers. This was a difficult way of life. When they were ready to establish roots to raise their own family; life brought them to reside in Washington state. In 1957 Roberto began farming for Mr. Hansen and Mr. Siverson in Outlook, WA. This is where they began their family with Rosemary, Rebecca, and Rita Ann. Roberto moved his family to Moses Lake, WA in 1966. Their youngest daughter, Rachel, was born after moving to Moses Lake. Roberto continued to be blessed with 6 grandchildren, Jordan, Adrian, Amber, Dylan Robert, Reina, Avery, and 7 great-grandchildren.
Roberto's goal was to provide a comfortable life for his family. He worked in agriculture and spent many years working at Simplot. His strength and dedication allowed him to work until retirement age retiring from Simplot.
Although Roberto's formal education was cut short, he was a self taught man. He built a large addition to the family home, doing most of the work by himself. After year of waiting, Roberto was able to build his own garage many would admire. He learned how to work on plumbing, electrical, he was great with numbers and was also a mechanic maintaining the family vehicles. He was a jack of all trades.
Roberto was very charismatic and always looked his best. He loved to joke and tell stories with his family and friends. He enjoyed singing, playing music, and was well known for his dancing. His first dancing partner was probably is mother. They would listen to the Yakima Valley radio station from home enjoy their love for music. He played the maracas, the guitar, the snare drum, and the accordion. Music resonated deep in his soul. This love of music inspired him to DJ after retiring. Roberto always cared about his appearance and his accomplishment. After a compliment whether it was for his looks or for just being himself he was known to say..."When you got it, you got it."
Family and friends are invited to attend Roberto's memorial services on April 29, 2012 at 12:00 PM being held at Elk's Lodge, 1930 - 814 N. Stratford Rd., Moses Lake, WA. In honor of Roberto's passion for music, a dance will follow the service.
Please sign guestbook at www.kayserschapel.com Arrangements are in care of Kayser's Chapel & Crematory.
Thank you to Hospice once again for supporting the Reyna girls through this challenging time. A human body can journey only so long, but their memory lingers and that is a beautiful part of life. We thank you friends and family for your support and prayers. Life is more beautiful knowing that Roberto and Viola Reyna are together once again. True love is endless.
Love always, your daughters.
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