Deacon Benjamin S. Valdez LEIPSIC – Deacon Benjamin S. Valdez, 76, of Leipsic, died surrounded by his loving family at 5:52 a.m., Monday, October 28, 2024, at his residence.  He was born February 17, 1948, in Mercedes, TX to the late Merced M. and Librada (Salinas) Valdez.  On March 13, 1970, he married the love of his life, Raquel Rodriguez and she survives in Leipsic. Other survivors include four children: Michelle Valdez and Janice Valdez, both of Leipsic, Ben Valdez, Jr. of Youngstown, and James (Sherry) Valdez of Leipsic; seven grandchildren: Terrill Murriel Jr., Ariel (Jason) Eagleson, Gabriel Medina-Panell, Zoe Valdez, Miles Valdez, Mia Valdez and Morgan Valdez; two great-grandchildren: Maverick Valdez and Melanie Eagleson; two brothers: Ricardo Valdez of San Antonio, TX and Merced Valdez, Jr. of Edcouch, TX; and two sisters: Graciela Loyo of Monterey, Mexico and Julie Valdez Garcia of Edinburg, TX. He was also preceded in death by a daughter, San Juanita Valdez; a sister, Maria Chonita Bejerano; and a brother, Ignacio Valdez. In his early years, Ben was a proud migrant/cotton picker. He retired in 2003 after 37 years with General Motors, Defiance. He was a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church, Leipsic and the Ottawa Knights of Columbus. In September of 2007, Ben was ordained as Deacon through The Diocese of Toledo. Because of his association with the church as Deacon, Ben was involved in numerous groups and organizations throughout the Leipsic community and beyond. He was foremost a family man, loving husband, father and grandfather. Seeing his family come together as one was truly the most important in Ben's heart. The funeral Vigil Service will begin at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, November 3, 2024 at St. Mary's Catholic Church, Leipsic.  Visitation will then be from 3:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. on Sunday and one hour prior to the Mass on Monday at the church.  Funeral Mass will begin at 10:00 a.m., Monday, November 4, 2024, with Fr. Mike Dandurand officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be given to St. Mary's Catholic Church or St. Mary's Catholic School. Condolences may be expressed at www.lovefuneralhome.com

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