* Ben S. Tapia; Former City Employee
Ventura resident Ben S. Tapia died Monday after a lengthy illness. He was 87.
Tapia’s family came to America in 1776, family members said. Tapia was born Sept. 9, 1911, in Ventura and lived in Ventura County his entire life.
For more than 20 years, Tapia worked in the city’s maintenance department. He volunteered his time for the Salvation Army and Food Share.
Tapia is survived by his wife, Marcella Tapia of Ventura; a son, Ben Tapia of Ventura; a daughter, Theresa Tapia-Reyes of Ventura; five grandchildren; three great-grandchildren and a nephew.
Private family services were celebrated Friday at the San Buenaventura Mission. Msgr. Patrick O’Brien said the Mass.
In lieu of flowers, people can make donations to the American Cancer Society.
The Joseph P. Reardon Funeral Home in Ventura handled the arrangements.
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