On Friday, November 9, 2018, CSM Benjamin Camacho Palacios was called home to his eternal resting place by the Heavenly Father at the age of 67. His beautiful life will forever be cherished in the lives of his family: wife, Estella Kosaka Palacios, son Benjamin (Jimmy), daughter-in-law, Laura, son Bryan, daughter-in-law Nicole, son Bradley, son Brent, 6 grandchildren Beth, Emmett, Maddox, Haley, Aiko, Cyrus, 1 great-grandchild Leon, brothers Luis, John, Eddie (deceased), Raymond, and Joe, sisters Frances and Margaret, and a host of devoted aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends .
Benjamin was born on November 11, 1950 in Saipan to Vicente and Isabel Palacios. His family later moved to Guam where he eventually graduated from George Washington High School. He was drafted into the Army in 1969 where he would spend a long and distinguished career of 32 years. He married his best friend, Estella, on July 14, 1973. They were happily married for 45 years during which they raised 4 sons. For the last few years, Benjamin enjoyed the sunsets with his lovely wife and a glass of wine on the beaches of Guam.
Benjamin was an avid golfer and enjoyed many hours on the course, particularly after he retired with his friends, Lou and Joe. His unshakable faith guided his life and he lived in service to others. People were drawn to him and he was seen as a guiding mentor to everyone he ever met. His grandchildren and great grandson were the lights of his life.
He will forever be carried in the hearts of his family and friends.
A viewing/funeral Mass will be held on Wednesday, November 14, 2018 at 1:00 at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church in Gaithersburg, MD. A burial at Arlington National Cemetery will be announced at a later date.