Benito Caseres

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Benito Caseres, a devoted family man and hardworking member of our community, who passed June 19, 2024. Known for his loving and generous spirit, he has left an indelible mark on those who had the fortune to know him.

Benito's life was deeply intertwined with his children and grandchildren, and he profoundly valued his role as a father and grandfather. To his sons, he was more than a parent, “He was more than my father, he was my best friend in the whole world,” says Caseres’ eldest son, also named Benito. In addition to carrying on his father’s name, Benito Caseres is following in his footsteps as an Houseperson at Loews Regency.

Joe Caceres recalls his father picking him up from school to go to the movies, race model cars, or to go fishing. He also taught him how to shave, how to fish, and how to swim. “I was about nine years old, and he was telling me to carry a 30-pound bucket full of water,” Joe says, “I didn’t get there in time, and the goldfish jumped back into the pond and got away, and the look on my father’s face was so disappointing—I’ll never forget it—but then he told me ‘Oh, it’s okay. Things come and go.’”

Benito always made time for family gatherings, filling weekends with BBQs and laughter, and creating memories that will be cherished forever. Despite his passing, his legacy lives on through his children and grandchildren, including his great-granddaughter, who he was thrilled to know would soon join the family.

Benito's career at the Martinique was more than just a job, it was an extension of his rich relationships. Many of his co-workers considered him family, and he was known for never hesitating to lend a helping hand or share a warm smile.

Benito was extremely proud of his Puerto Rican heritage. His identity was an integral part of him and shaped him to be the man he was. “That man had CDs and USB drives of all his favorite Spanish mixes that he would play on his drives, going to Bear Mountain or Atlantic City for the weekend,” Joe said.

“He was very proud of his work, and he was very proud of his family,” says Mustapha Sackor, a House Attendant at the Martinique and friend of Benito’s for 25 years, says. Mustapha describes him as lovely, friendly, and always cracking jokes.

He used to love singing songs while working, such as “Livin’ in the Red” by War, “Rainy Night in Georgia” by Brook Benton and “Papa Was a Rollin’ Stone” by The Temptations.

Known as a man of principle, he lived by a code of honesty and authenticity that inspired those around him. Whether he was indulging in his love for singing, building or besting others at pool, Benito pursued his passions with the same intensity with which he loved others. “The one thing everybody knew, even in the hotel where he worked, the one thing you don’t do with that man was mess with his food,” says Benito, “but other than that, he’d literally give you the shirt right off his back.”

“He was the type of person that you could open up to about anything and not have to worry about being judged,” says his eldest son. Benito's memory is preserved in the stories shared by his sons and colleagues. His family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him will keep his spirit alive by cherishing the countless memories he created. “He loved life and he loved people,” says his son Benito.

He is survived by his loving mother Elena, his brothers and sister, his sons Benito and Joe, his cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and countless friends and coworkers.

In his honor, let us remember the importance of family, community, and the impact of kindness. As his sons advise, cherish your loved ones, create memories, and hold on to those voicemails: for the comfort and memories they bring are priceless.