Carlos Benton March 11, 1947 — Jan. 14, 2021

On Thursday, Jan. 14, 2021, Carlos Benton, loving husband, father and grandfather, passed away at the age of 73.

Carlos was born on March 11, 1947, in Sonora. He was raised in Tuolumne where he attended Summerville Elementary and High School. After graduation in 1966, Carlos enlisted to serve in the Vietnam War in the Air Force where he was a sergeant jet engine mechanic from 1969 through 1972. Upon returning home, Carlos joined the construction trades, including the Laborers Local No. 1130 and Operating Engineers Local No. 3.

Carlos married Emily Ann Clark nearly 45 years ago on March 20, 1976. They made their home in Tuolumne and raised their two sons: Douglas Benton and David Benton. Carlos worked hard and enjoyed working in his shop wrenching on trucks and tractors. He was always the first to help someone in need and looked after many neighbors and family. After retiring from the union, Carlos helped Doug and David with all their ventures; he was always ready to go when the phone rang! His pride shined as he watched the boys succeed.

Carlos was a 32nd degree Scottish Rite Freemasonry and for years was an active member in the Moose Lodge where he enjoyed riding in many parades with family and friends. Family is what meant the most to Carlos. He always had time for a fishing or hunting trip with the boys, and they went on many, including international ones. His greatest joy was his six granddaughters, even with the tough exterior Carlos liked to display, he melted instantly in the presence of the girls. He was never too busy to pick them up from school for a treat and shopping. Daily you could find the granddaughters feeding the ranch animals with him. A summer ago, Carlos enjoyed a pack trip to the back country with all six girls and was able to pass along the joy he had for those trips to them.

Carlos had an infectious smile, strong opinions, competitiveness, quick wit and compassionate spirit.

Carlos was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Mary Benton.

He is survived by his wife, Ann; two sons, Doug Benton (Michelle) and David Benton (Tanya); six granddaughters, Zana (13), Abigail (11), Ava (11), Katherine (9), Madelyn (8) and Emma (8).

Due to restrictions, there will not be services currently. In lieu of flower, please make donations to St. Jude’s at: http:// giftfunds.stjude.org/carlosbenton.