MGySgt Ret Benjamin Simental Jr.

Benjamin Simental, Jr., son of the late Benjamin Simental and Guadalupe (Gavaldon) Simental, was born April 8, 1951 in El Paso, Texas. In 1969, Benjamin joined the United States Marines and served his country faithfully until his retirement in 1999 after 30 years of service. He received several awards and commendations; some of which include: Rifle Marksman Badge, Pistol Marksman Badge, Meritorious Service Medal, Navy & Marine Corps Achievement Medal (2nd Award), Good Conduct Medal (9th Award), National Defense Service Medal (2nd Award), Sea Service Deployment Ribbon (3rd Award), Meritorious Unit Commendation (3rd Award), Navy Unit Commendation, Vietnam Service Medal (2nd Award), Vietnam Campaign Medal, Vietnam Meritorious Unit Citation, Meritorious Mast (2nd Award), and Good Conduct Medal. He had attained the rank of Master Gunnery Sergeant and served one tour in Vietnam. On July 12, 1971, Benjamin was united in marriage to Sandra Ann Carter in El Paso, Texas. They shared over 49 years together and were blessed with eight children: Ben, Jon, Chris, Jake, Tabi, Roxanne, Katt and Bernie. After retiring from the military at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, Benjamin and the family decided to stay in the area. In his spare time, Benjamin enjoyed working out his yard doing landscaping projects. He also liked to watch just about any war movie he could find. Benjamin was a member of the American Legion. Most importantly, he enjoyed spending time with his family any time he could. Benjamin passed away Thursday, April 23, 2020 in his home having attained the age of 69 years. He will be sadly missed, but fondly remembered by all those who knew and loved him. Benjamin leaves to cherish his memory, his wife: Sandra Simental of the home; four sons: Ben Simental of St. Robert, MO, Jon Simental of Waynesville, MO, Chris Simental and Jake Simental, both of St. Robert, MO; four daughters: Tabi Gregor (Matt) of San Antonio, TX, Roxanne Simental (Shane), Katt Simental (Henry) and Bernie Simental, all of St. Robert, MO; twenty-six grandchildren; six great grandchildren; five brothers: Ricky Simental (Sonya), Danny Simental (Terry), Tony Simental, Mike Simental and Alex Simental, all of El Paso, TX; five sisters: Liz Simental, Teri Simental, Barbara Crow, Alice Thompson (Frank) and Bonnie Wills, all of El Paso, TX; several nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. In addition to his parents, Benjamin waspreceded in death by one sister: Virginia Whitcomb; one niece: Yvette Puned; and one sister-in-law: Debra Rizo. Even though he is gone from our sight, Benjamin’s memory will live on in our hearts forever. Service with full military honors was held at 12:00 p.m. Friday, June 19, 2020 in the Memorial Chapels and Crematory of Waynesville / St. Robert with Father John Groner officiating. Military honors were provided by the United States Marines. Memorial contributions may be made in memory of Benjamin Simental, Jr. and may be left at Memorial Chapels and Crematory of Waynesville / St. Robert.

MGySgt Ret Benjamin Simental Jr.

April 8, 1951 - April 23, 2020