Benny Benitez Marin

Marin, Benny, 79, was called to heaven on April 18th, 2020 when he lost his battle against the horrific COVID-19. Born in Morenci, AZ, he grew up with 9 brothers and sisters.

Benny was a man of many talents, from working as a barber, sheet metal worker, working for NASA during the Apollo 11 mission, to his dream of owning his own restaurant, M&M Dairy King in Sells, AZ, home of the famous Benny Burger and Warrior Burger, for almost 20 years.

While living in Los Angeles during the 60's, he loved taking his family and visiting relatives to Disneyland, Dodgers and Angels games. His love of baseball began early in life, when he played semi-pro baseball for the LA team of Jack Ellis. After returning to Tucson, his passion for his beloved Dodgers continued, often making the drive up to LA to watch them play. Benny also supported and enjoyed watching the AZ Dbacks, visiting Chase Field for the last time in July 2019. The Diamondbacks won!

Benny is preceded in death by his beautiful wife of 57 years, Charlotte. Survived by son, Ben (Lela), and daughters Sandra (Casey) Ledford, Veronica (Hector) Campuzano, Denise Marin Hermosillo, 11 grandchildren, and 14 great-grandchildren, whom he all adored.

Dad always put family first, he never hesitated to help anyone, and would give the shirt off his back to whomever needed it. He also had a knack for giving everyone nick-names. His huge grins, goofy picture taking, kind heart and outgoing personality will be greatly missed. We love you Dad!

A special thank you to his grand-daughter, Melissa "ChiCha" Marin for being his caregiver for more than a year. Services and celebration of life will be performed when it is safe to do so.