Onecimo Banuellas

Onecimo R. Banuellas, 83, of Safford, passed away December 11, 2017. He was born February 16, 1934 in Coolidge, Arizona to Adolfo & Dolores Romero Banuellas. After graduating from Safford High School, "O.C." served his country by joining the Army National Guard where he became a supreme marksman earning a Certificate of Distinction, and to those around him say "who knew?" Onecimo married the love of his life, Betty Palma, whom he loved to take on long, cozy drives. He loved his Chevy truck and his family. He loved the simple things in life; Fruit of the Loom t-shirts and jeans whether it was winter or summer, he liked his jeans. He worked for the City of Safford or many years but finally was able to enjoy his retirement. He was an avid Suns fan and if he wasn't at home, he was trying his luck at the casino. He never wasted "finite resources" which guaranteed him to never get a speeding ticket. He took his last drive on Monday, December 11, 2017. His life legacy will be celebrated by many including his son Robert (Jamie) Banuellas of Safford, daughters Evelyn (Mike) Hurston of Safford & MaryAnn (Torsten) Andresen of Lakeside and David M. Calderone of Tucson. He was loved by all of his grandchildren including Dave Mendoza, Jr., Torrey Andresen, Lillian Knight, Michelle, Mackenzi, Madyx and Jaxyn Banuellas, and Jared Stauder with one great grandchild, Robin Mendoza. O.C. was preceded in death by his parents Adolfo & Dolores and his beloved wife Betty Banuellas. A Celebration of Life will begin with a viewing followed by the Rosary being led on Friday, December 15, 2017 beginning at 5:00 p.m. at the McDougal's Caldwell Chapel with the Mass of Christian Burial on Saturday, December 16th at 10:00 a.m. at St. Rose of Lima Church with Father Robert Rodriguez as Celebrant. Interment will be in the Safford Cemetery. A reception will be held following services at the FFF Clubhouse located at 871 Ceairra Linda Lane in Safford.