Molina Ventura

Ventura (Ben/Benny) Molina Jr., 65, achieved full illumination and true happiness as he stepped into the Ultimate Light on July 25, 2012, in this beautiful desert Southwest. He is survived by his son Javier Molina, his grandson Ventura Molina, Brothers: Salvador and Ruben Molina. Sister, Magdelena Manriquez. He laughed much, cried much, loved much, and gave much during his long tenure in this worldly realm. For over forty years, Ben was a caring and dedicated educator in Texas and New Mexico for which he won many awards and recognitions. He served for over 40 years in the education profession as a high school, college, and university instructor of English and Reading. He studied at UT-El Paso and UT-Austin. In public service, he was a school board member, a city planning commissioner, a city councilor, and Mayor of the City of Sunland Park. He was also President of the New Mexico Council of Governments. In 1964, he earned the Eagle of the Cross Medal and Award as the Catholic Diocese Boy of the Year from Bishop Sidney Metzger. Ben was also a highly decorated and proud Viet Nam War Combat Infantry Veteran and had served as the first Post Commander of the Santa Teresa-Sunland Park VFW. A private cremation has been held. In lieu of flowers, please make a contribution in Ben’s name to your favorite charity. Services entrusted to Sunset Funeral Home-West.