On Monday, December 14, 2020 Ben Artiaga Jr., beloved son, awesome brother, the best Tio, and great friend to many, passed away suddenly at age 61.
Ben was raised in Alamogordo by his amazing parents, Ben & Rachel Artiaga. He graduated from Alamogordo High School in 1979 and Bachelor level studies at both UNM and NM State Universities. He served his career in the U.S. Border Patrol and retired in 2000.
Ben was well known in the community and will best be remembered for his great sense of humor and giving spirit. He had a "green thumb", always enjoyed gardening and sharing the fruits of his labor. He had a true passion for music, the outdoors and classic cars; he was always up for a "cruise" People came to Ben for advice, to get "directions" and words of encouragement when they were feeling down.
He was preceded in death by his father Ben M. Artiaga and sister Angie Artiaga-Torrez. Ben is survived by his mom "GMa" Rachel Artiaga, sister Nancy and her husband Frank Martinez, sister Diane and her husband Rick Mendoza, nephews Franky & Eric Martinez, Anthoni Mendoza and niece Victoria Mendoza-West. Ben had a great extended family who loved him like a brother and his many (and we mean many!) cousins will miss his friendship a great deal.
Ben will be laid to rest next to his father Ben and sister Angie on Monday, January 4th 2021 at the Monte Vista Cemetery in Alamogordo. Unfortunately, due to the State of New Mexico COVID-19 restrictions, a traditional funeral service is not possible at this time. The family will announce a celebration of Ben's life for family and friends in the spring when it is safe to do so.
Honorary Pallbearers: Franky Martinez, Eric Martinez, Garett West, Albert Cervantez, Junior Zamora, and
Victoria West.
"But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint." Isaiah 40:31
The Artiaga family has entrusted their loved one to the care of Alamogordo Funeral Home to direct the arrangements.
To send flowers
to the family or plant a tree
in memory of Ben Artiaga, Jr., please visit our floral store.