Ricardo "Cardo" Gabriel Benavidez

Ricardo “Cardo” Gabriel Benavidez, passed away on December 21, 2023. Ricardo was born on November 29, 1983 in Santa Fe, New Mexico. He was preceded in death by both of his parents, Lloyd and Barbara J. Montoya. He is survived by his daughters, Hailey Benavidez and Emma Benavidez of Santa Fe, New Mexico; his sisters, Hope (Jose) Rodriguez and Heather (Gabriel) Lovato; and his brother, Adam Benavidez, all from Rio Rancho, New Mexico as well as his biological father Genaro (Linda) Benavidez of Las Vegas, New Mexico.

Cardo worked with the New Mexico Corrections Department from 2005 to 2018.  He liked fishing and always enjoyed the company of family and the food that brought them together.

The family would like you to know that your “support means everything to us as we navigate this painful time.  Even though we did not anticipate the passing of Ricardo, we know that Ricardo loved you all very much, and we, as a family appreciate the kindness you have extended to us.  We love you all and Thank You from the Bottom of Our Hearts!”

A viewing will be held at Daniels Family Funeral Services on Thursday, January 4, 2024 at 10:00 am.  On Friday, January 5, 2024 the family will hold a Memorial Service at Life Church starting at 12:00 pm.

“When tomorrow starts without me
And I’m not here to see
If the sun should rise and fine your eyes
All filled with tears for me

I wish you wouldn’t cry
The way you did today
While thinking of the many things
We didn’t get to say

I know how much you love me
As much as I love you
Each time that you think of me
I know you’ll miss me too

When tomorrow starts without me
Please try to understand
That an angel came and called my name
And took me by the hand

The angel said my place was ready
In Heaven far above
And that I would have to leave behind
All those I dearly love

But when I walked through Heaven’s Gates
I felt so much at home
When GOD looked down and smiled at me
From His golden throne

He said This Is Eternity
And all I promised you
Today your life on earth is done
But here it starts anew.

I promise no tomorrow
For today will always last
And since each day’s the exact same way
There is no longing for the past

So when tomorrow starts without me
Do not think that we’re apart
For every time you think of me
Remember I’m right here in your heart.