Leo Benigno

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Leo Benigno, beloved husband, brother, father, grandfather and friend to many. Leo, 89, of Clayton Park Nova Scotia passed away peacefully at his home on Friday November 11, 2022 with his family by his side.

Leo was born on January 1, 1933 in the town of Vestea, Abruzzo, Italy. He was the son of Vitorrio and Maria (Santucci) Benigno. Leo was predeceased by his brothers Stefano (Elisa), Corrado (Giovina), and his brother in law, Costantino (Nina). He is survived by his wife, Margherita (Corsetti), his sons Adriano, Carlo (Donna), brother, Luigi (Lina), sister Nina. Leo is also survived by his grandchildren, Matteo and Angelo, their mother Jennifer, and grandchildren, Gabriel, Christian, and Stefano. Leo was the proud uncle of numerous nieces and nephews.

Leo immigrated to Canada from Italy in 1957, arriving in Halifax where like so many before him, he was faced with learning a new language, adapting to a new culture, and carving a new life for himself. A year later in 1958, Leo married his wife, Margherita, who also immigrated from Italy, and for almost 65 years, the two of them built a life together, raised their children, and loved their grandchildren, all the while surrounded by many family and friends. Leo worked hard to support his family, learning the trade of tile setting. Throughout his professional life, he become a well respected tiler who worked for many years at Nova Tile.

Leo lived life simply and joyfully. He was always willing to help anyone out, he was generous with his time, and he was one of the first to visit friends and family in times of sickness and health. Leo loved his family and his siblings so much, and he was happiest when surrounded by them. He was quick to offer a glass of his homemade wine, an espresso with brandy, or the bounty that came from his backyard garden. Falls were spent with family trips to the Valley, and days spent making wine and sausages. Leo enjoyed picnics with his loved ones and the larger Italian community, Italian weekends at the Italian Cultural Association, and evenings spent playing cards with his brothers, brother in law, friends, and family. Westerns, television shows from the 80's, and tennis were his favourite ways to spend his time. He enjoyed playing the accordion, and as he aged, he enjoyed listening to his grandson, Matteo play the accordion as well. Sunday dinners were treasured, and Leo loved each of his grandchildren beyond measure.

The family would like to extend a very special thank you to care providers, Helen, Joan, Marsha, and Colleen, who got to know and love our Dad, and greatly contributed to his quality of life in his final months.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, November 16th from 2-4 and 7-9 at J.A. Snows Funeral Home, Lacewood Drive, Clayton Park. A Funeral Mass will take place at Saint Benedict Parish at 12:15 on Thursday, November 17th, Father Alex Colautti officiating. Following the Mass, Leo will be laid to rest in Fairview Cemetery.