Alex M. Benavidez

GARDNER - Alex Benavidez, born on April 18, 1989 in Gardner, died at the age of 28 on Tuesday, April 25th.  Alex was part of a large family and very loved.  Among those he leaves behind are his mother,  Annie Rice, his brother, Joseph Benavidez, his sisters Angela Craft and Danielle Rice, and his to-be-brother in law, Charles Derby.  Alex's father, Vincent Benavidez, lives in Texas, where Alex enjoyed visiting his cousins, aunts, uncles, and previously deceased grandparents.

Alex was a 28 year old Marine Veteran, who struggled with PTSD after completing a tour in Afghanistan.  He was officially Honorably Discharged in August of 2014 and received the Marines Corps Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, NATO Medal-ISAF Afghanistan and a letter of Appreciation.

Alex loved to cook- his first real job was at a local Mexican restaurant where he started as an expo worker, before quickly becoming a chef.  Alex also excelled at math, paintballing, and enjoyed backyard fires, hanging out, camping, and just being with family and friends.  His favorite video games were Metal Gear Solid and GTA.

Alex was known for his determination, strong work ethic and quick wit.

Military funeral services will be held Tuesday, May 9, 2017 at 2 P.M. in Massachusetts Veterans' Memorial Cemetery, 111 Glenallen Street, Winchendon.

Calling hours in Stone-Ladeau Funeral Home, 343 Central Street, Winchendon are Monday, May 8, 2017 from 5 to 7 P.M. and Tuesday, May 9, 2017 from 1 to 1:30 PM.

www.stone-ladeau.com