Obituary for Benjamin Barela Escobedo

Benjamin Barela Escobedo passed away Jan. 22, in Tucson, at the age of 65.  He was born Dec. 23, 1953, in Safford, to Pedro Luna Escobedo and Brijida Escobedo.

Benjamin was one of five children born to Brijida and Pedro; Geneva, Anthony, Edward, and Pedro III. He attended schools in Safford and then joined the U.S. Army in 1978. While enlisted, he became a combat engineer and earned the Army Commendation Medal before being honorably discharged in 1981.

Benjamin Barela Escobedo

After his discharge, he became a silversmith, working in jewelry design and goldsmithing and becoming a Master Jeweler. Benjamin was thrilled with the birth of his son and proud to give him his name, Benjamin B. Escobedo, Jr. He was an amazing artist, an incredible cook, and a great storyteller. He had a very kind soul and was always helping others.

He is survived by his loving son, Benjamin Escobedo, Jr.; his mother, Brijida Escobedo; and siblings, Geneva, Edward, and Pedro Escobedo III.

Benjamin is preceded in death by his father, Pedro Luna Escobedo; and his brother, Anthony Escobedo.

The recitation of the Rosary will be held Friday, Feb. 8, at 10 a.m., followed by the Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. at the St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church. Inurnment will be in the Gila Valley Memorial Gardens Cemetery following services.

Arrangements are under the direction of McDougal’s Caldwell Funeral Chapel & Gila Valley Crematory. Online condolences may be extended at www.caldwellfunerlachapel.com.