Benito Cortez

Benito Cortez, 75, of Tucson passed away on June 28, 2018. He was born in Pharr, Texas to Victor Rodriguez Cortez and Joaquina Casarez Cortez on February 20, 1943. He is survived by his loving wife of 43 years, Irma Cortez; sons Richard Huerta and James Cortez; daughters, Patricia Cortez and Ilsa Rizzi; brothers, Gregory Cortez and Florentino Cortez; sisters, Irma Chessar and Sandra Loya; five grandchildren and one great-grandchild.  He was preceded in death by his son, Benito Cortez, Jr.; brother Juan Manuel Cortez and sister, Linda Rosales. Benito loved to dance especially to music from his home state of Texas.  He came to Arizona to serve in the United States Air Force and later stayed after meeting his beloved bride who he married on June 5, 1975.  Such a kind, giving and gentle man who loved his family dearly.  He helped raise his siblings after losing his father and spoiled his children with unconditional love. Playing card games with his family and reading were some of his favorite past-times.  He cheered on his Dallas Cowboys and loved eating Mexican food.  He will be terribly missed by his family, especially his wife because they were never apart but they will always cherish the beautiful memories made together.