Benny Joe Lujan

Benny Joe Lujan completed his life journey on September 25, 2018. His loving wife of 20 years, Lillie (Mary) Chavez and her daughter Bonnie Ireland were at his bedside to bid him adieu. He was born July 12, 1932 in Rociada, New Mexico to John Lujan and Rachel Romero. He had two sisters and two brothers, Mary Soria, Helen Masias, Ernie and Paul Lujan who have preceded him into Heaven. Despite a difficult childhood he grew up to be a man of uncommon good. He was a man of honesty and integrity although, he fibbed about his age so he could join the Army in 1949. He served bravely in the Korean War and was honorably discharged in 1959. Among his many commendations he was awarded the Korean Service Medal with two Bronze Stars. He worked for the U.S. Treasury at the Denver Mint for many years. One of the highlights of his career was to be selected to count the gold bars at Fort Knox, Kentucky. This honor is reserved for public servants of the highest integrity. After his retirement from the Mint he worked as a Security Officer for Brinks Armored Car Service in Salt Lake City. Twenty years ago, he had the good fortune to be invited to a wedding by the beautiful Mary Chavez who had lost her husband of many years. They became best friends and walked together hand-in-hand for the rest of his days. Although he did not have children of his own he became a father for Mary's two daughters and Grandpa to the three grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. Benny and Mary shared a wonderful life together. They traveled extensively and loved Las Vegas and Wendover, Nevada. He loved fishing and was an avid golfer. His great honor was to be a dedicated Denver Broncos fan. When he passed he had on his Broncos socks and blanket keeping him warm and comforted. The immediate family wishes to thank extended family and friends for their loving and compassionate calls, visits and expressions of love. Special thanks and recognition go out to the entire Staff at Sandy Health & Rehabilitation and Heartwood Hospice for their superior care. We are forever grateful for his Spiritual Care givers, for their powerful support, guidance and counsel. Funeral and graveside services will be held Monday, October 1, 2018 beginning at 11:00 am in the chapel at Utah Veterans Cemetery & Memorial Park, 17111 South Camp Williams Road, Bluffdale Utah. A luncheon and celebration of his life will immediately follow at River Oaks Golf Course, 9300 South Riverside Drive, Sandy, Utah. Although he will be missed by his family and friends, we are fortunate to have shared his life. Place of Birth:Rociada, New MexicoPlace of Death:Sandy, Utah