“Ben” passed away peacefully on May 5th, 2023, in Orlando, Florida, following a 12-day ICU hospital stay.
Benjamin was born on April 10, 1985, in Hayward, CA. He was the beloved son of John and Lynnette Sabenorio. Survivors include his parents, who reside in Kingston, WA. He is also survived by his sisters: Jennifer (Benjamin) Kalman of Kirkland, WA, and Yolonda Callo Pelletier of Redmond, WA. Additionally, his godparents, Joel and Cynthia Sabenorio of Wilseyville, CA, as well as his uncles Allan Sabenorio (Sue), Carmen Sabenorio Wentz (Roger), and Jules Sabenorio (Sue Meng), mourn his passing.
He leaves behind nephews, London Pelletier and Julian “JPK” Kalman, and 1st cousins: Julius Sabenorio, CA, Tim Wentz, MN, Megan Wentz, MN, Peter Wentz, MN, Nico Sabenorio, CA, Dorian Sabenorio, CA, Rachel Sabenorio, MD, Shaylei Brandt, CA, and Kaysha Lynnette Perry, CA.
Benjamin was preceded in death by his grandparents Julian and Carmen Sabenorio and Edwena Heath. He was also preceded in death by his uncles, Julius Sabenorio and Stephen (Norma) O’Keefe.
Benjamin was predominantly employed by United Parcel Service (UPS) as an Airport Supervisor after graduating from college. He served honorably in the United States Army, attaining the rank of sergeant. During his time in the army, he traveled covertly as a Human Intelligence Operative, exploring different parts of the world. Following his Honorable Discharge from the United States Army in 2022, he was pursuing studies at the Motorcycle Mechanics Institute in Orlando, FL, at the time of his passing.
He had a passion for riding and repairing motorcycles and cars. Benjamin also enjoyed playing and watching football, basketball, tennis, and had an appreciation for all genres of popular music.
One of his proudest achievements was earning a degree in Criminal Justice from Sacramento State University. Additionally, he received a special commendation from the FBI, the contents of which are sealed until the year 2068.
Benjamin was a multilingual individual who fearlessly embraced new experiences. His vibrant personality endeared him to everyone he encountered.
Throughout his life, he had the opportunity to reside in various places, including Hayward, CA, Suisun City, CA, Vacaville, CA, Sacramento, CA, Port Orchard, WA, Tokyo, Japan, Okinawa, Japan, Kingston, WA, and Merritt Island/Cape Canaveral, FL.
We would like to acknowledge Karen Pardy for providing housing to Ben while he was in Orlando. We also extend our gratitude to his virtual mom, Jamie Pritchett of Cocoa, FL, and his loving girlfriend, Meredith Pritchett, who brought immense joy to Ben’s life until the very end.
His services will be held at Tahoma National Cemetery in Kent, WA on May 19th, 2023 at 12:30 PM.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Diabetes Association or the St. Jude Children’s Hospital Foundation. Special consideration is also given to the USO, an organization that Ben deeply appreciated during his time in the Army.
Many hugs and many prayers for Ben’s family. Ben was always there for my son, Austen Vanek. They shared a great friendship and a true brotherly bond. Ben was Austen’s mentor and sounding board, a dear brother found halfway around the world away from family. We prayed for Ben daily. God placed him on my heart when he placed him in Austen‘s life, and I am grateful that he is now zipping around those highways in heaven free from any pain of this world. We will see you later, Ben. ❤️🙏🏼
SGT Sab will forever live in my heart as one of the good ones. As an E-5 he operated at the E-7 or E-8 level. He was critical in developing Jr. Soldiers, NCOs, and Officers to be productive, logical, and forward thinking members of the military. In the chaos of the Army, he was a voice of reason and common sense. If I ever got cocky, he would take me down a peg. If I ever felt useless, he would build me back up. He was a great Soldier, a great friend, and someone I will forever call a brother. I wish I had more time with him than the few months that I did. I’ll see you on the other side, brotherman.
-A Salty Army Captain
Ben was my Soldier but he was my friend and mentor. He changed everyone’s life he encountered. He was always encouraging and demanding the best from everyone around, but would always help those who weren’t quite at their best yet. He will forever be a part of my, and my family’s, life. We love you and miss you brother.
-SSG Maz
Ben was a teammate and close friend during my time in the Army. Although we were stationed in Washington together our friendship picked up the moment I picked him up from the airport in Tokyo. He was placed on my team and I had the privilege to work with him closely. He was there for me during my darkest times of my life in the Army despite any challenges he faced, he went out of his way to be with me. It was fitting for him to drop me off at the airport when my time came to an end in Japan. He called me when he left the Army and wanted my family to meet him in Florida to hang out and meet my youngest child. He was always so kind to my oldest and my wife. He will always be part of me and my family. Miles would have loved to meet you brother. Until we meet again “Sab with the nice hair”. Love you brother.
-JP
Sab,
You were an excellent Soldier and NCO, it was an honor and privilege to have you in Bravo Company. You will be missed. Until next time.
-CPT K.
Benjamin was one of my Soldiers while at Joint Base Lewis McChord, Washington and was an amazing troop, man, and friend. He was loved by all that he touched. He had an infectious personality and so many enjoyed just being in his presence. I will definitely miss him. Rest in Peace Sab!
My condolences to the family. Ben is special.
I will never forget Ben. His kindness, his big heart, so easy to talk to. I will never forget how Ben stood in uniform at my father’s funeral, holding salute at his grave. Ben you were a wonderful man and you are missed.
Dear John, Lynette & Family,
We are totally shocked to read about Ben! He was such a joy to all who knew him. Please accept our condolences to all who knew and loved him. May he R.I.P. in the arms of Our Lord! God Bless You All & help you through this very difficult time! We will see you all at the memorial! Lots of love ❤️ to all! XXOO
Although I did not know Ben for very long but just meeting him was a joy. He was friendly and open to everyone. His happy and jovial personality was apparent at our first party we attended. I regret that I did not have much time to get to know him better.
My sincere condolences and prayers to his family and friends and especially to Jamie and Meredith.
Love 💕
We are heartbroken to learn of Ben’s passing. We remember him as such a sweet and happy little boy who became so endeared to our family. Our hearts go out to John, Lynnette, Jennifer and the rest of Ben’s family with our deepest condolences sent to you all.
Another good one taken from this world way too soon. Rest in eternal peace Ben.
Ben and I became friends in high school. He was one of my closest friends at the time and he was such a honest and caring young man. It is no surprise that he grew up to be a honorable man with an honorable military career. It was a blessing to have known Ben and to be able to call him my friend.
I am absolutely heartbroken to hear of Ben’s passing. I was fortunate to have the opportunity to not only be neighbors with the Sabenorio’s, but was also their babysitter. I have always thought of Ben & Jen as kids of my own. I will always remember Ben’s huge smile and kind spirit. All my love and hugs to John, Lynnette, Jen and family. I love you guys.
Thank you for having the courage to wear our Country’s uniform. Very few do. Thank you for influencing those that served under your authority and influencing those that were entrusted with your care.
My deepest respect and condolences to the Sabenorio Family.
We didn’t know each other. Your Dad is one of the nicest men, I’ve ever met.
Fair Winds and Following Seas,
Matt Stout (Corporal, USMC—Sergeant, Beverly Hills Police Department)
Deepest sympathy to the family. I worked with John for many years at UPS and I am praying for him and the family. Such a tremendous loss, take comfort in knowing he is at peace with the Lord. Veronica
Dearest John and Lynette… I am deeply saddened for you both and your family for the loss of your beloved son, Ben. I never knew him but he is your son, your child and we know as parents we are the ones who should leave this earth before our children. Loosing a child, no matter the age, is extremely painful as I’ve see my parents go through it with our brother. I do know time heals… it may take awhile but it does. What I hope can be comforting to you is that he is now in the house of our Lord. Ben will always be with you and you will indeed see each other again. My deepest sympathy and love to you. Praying for your comfort at this difficult time. With love, Lourdes
So So Sorry for the sad news. I was very saddened that I couldn’t make the Services at Tahoma National Cemetery, as I had an important medical appointment on that same day. In my thinking, Parents aren’t meant to outlive their children. I had the pleasure of meeting Ben one night while with John and Lynette. I remembered this young man, as a good looking, courteous, friendly individual. A gentleman and a scholar. Someone who made his parents very proud. Our hearts and prayers go out to the Sabenorio Ohana.
This is a time to reflect and remember all the good positive memories that Ben has left in our hearts, while on this earth. They say that time heals all wounds, Let’s pray that’s true for the Sabenorio family. May we have the strength in our love to pull us through these hard times.
His smile and kind soul was a light in any room.
Ben was a member of my boxing club back in 2007 and 2008. We helped him lose a lot of weight and he was even in our gym ads!
He lived life to the fullest and we could all learn a lesson from him about thst!
I spent a majority of my early twenties with Ben and his big smile and boisterous laugh. He always brought positivity to any room and was always interested in a new adventure or goal. It looks like he led a very fulfilling life with large accomplishments. I’ll always have fond memories of him and his memory will always be shared.
Ben, I am floored by your passing. I have so many good memories of laughter and fun. Whether it was riding, shooting, or just joking around it won’t be the same without you. I liked our calls when time has passes, but it always seemed we would pick up right where we left off without skipping a beat. You are missed my friend.