In Memoriam: Cody Bengoa OD '04

Cody Bengoa OD '04 died Sept. 29, 2021, at age 44, following an "arduous and brave fight with cancer," wrote his family. 

Bengoa always knew that he wanted to pursue a career that would enable him to serve others. In 2003, he was president of AMIGOS Eye Care, a nonprofit affiliated with Pacific’s College of Optometry dedicated to providing vision care to underserved populations around the globe. 

Bengoa returned to his hometown in Winnemucca, Nev., where people simply referred to him as, "The Eye Doctor."

Despite his busyness at work, he always made time to hang out with the love of his life, Tiffany, and his young partners in crime and all things ice cream related, Maitéa and Joel. 

“My dad will be forever remembered for his kindness and courage by all those who were blessed enough to be a part of his life,” wrote his daughter Maitéa.

Bengoa enjoyed skiing, hiking, fishing, camping, relaxing on the beach, and going on vacation with his family.

“Everyone remembers Cody’s kindness, faith, supportive nature, and smile,” said College of Optometry Dean Fraser Horn ’00, OD ’04. “He treated everyone with respect and care and it was this approach that made him such a great calming presence in our class. He was passionate about helping others and his family and community.”

Bengoa is survived by his parents, Cleto and Sandra; his wife, Tiffany; and children Maitéa and Joel.

The Pacific University College of Optometry is planning a memorial bench outside of Jefferson Hall in honor of Dr. Bengoa. Contributions may be made at, https://www.pacificu.edu/give/support-dr-cody-bengoa-od-04-memorial-bench.