Ben Ray Cardenas

Benjamin Reynaldo “Papa” Cardenas May 5, 1943- January 3, 2024. 

Ben was born in Dawson, NM on May 5, 1943 and went to be with his loving Savior Jesus Christ on January 3, 2024. Ben served in the New Mexico Army National Guard for 34 years, retiring as a decorated Major in 1994. He was a beloved member of the Santa Fe and Taos communities and a hard-working Taos rancher with his dear brother-in-law Andy Martinez for over 60 years. He is survived by his most beloved wife, Eleanor, loving children, Barbara Wolf (Husband David) and Thomas (Wife Rosalyn), adoring grandchildren, Danielle, Ryan, Benjamin, Caleb, and Bethany, with their spouses, and loving friends and family including siblings, Dolores, Andy, Rosie, Patsy, Richard, John, Manuel, Andy Martinez with their spouses and children whom he loved dearly and preceded in death by his loving sister Anna. The world has lost the most incredible man with the most joyous laugh, and he will be missed dearly. The military memorial service will be on Friday, January 12 at the Santa Fe National Cemetery at 9:00 a.m. followed by a memorial service and reception at the Santa Fe Women's Club at 10:30.