Benito Maldonado

Benito Maldonado, affectionately known as “Benny,” was born on March 13, 1956, in Palm Beach, Florida, to Gloria Maria Ramos and Bienvenido Maldonado. Benny, age 70, passed away on August 30, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio, surrounded by family. He was a beloved father, grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin, lifelong friend, and proud United States Marine.

Although Benny was born in Florida, Cleveland became his home. He grew up primarily on Cleveland’s West Side and attended Marion-Sterling Elementary School, William Dean Howells Junior High School, Max S. Hayes High School, and Cuyahoga Community College.

Benny proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps, attaining the rank of Corporal. During his service, he worked as a Rifle Range Coach and demonstrated exceptional marksmanship, earning the Expert Rifle Badge with the M-16 on three occasions. He was also awarded the Good Conduct Medal in recognition of his honorable and faithful service.

After completing nearly three years of active duty, from July 24, 1975, through July 23, 1978, Benny was honorably released from active duty and transferred to the Marine Corps Reserve. The discipline, courage, loyalty, strength, and commitment he developed as a Marine remained part of him throughout his life. Following his military service, Benny built a career with the United States Postal Service.

Benny was a simple, hardworking man who often kept to himself, but he also knew how to enjoy life. He was outgoing, constantly on the move, and always seemed to be either coming into the house or heading back out to do something. His familiar “Oh, man!” and the way he greeted his brothers with “Hey, bro” became expressions his loved ones will always hear in their memories.

He enjoyed a good time, often with a beer in his hand, and found joy in cooking, baking, fixing things, golfing, attending car shows, and playing dominoes and cards. He loved cartoons and classic television, including The Pink Panther, The Andy Griffith Show, MASH*, and old cowboy movies.

Benny was known for his chili, rice mixed with beans, homemade bread, and especially his delicious muffins. His favorite treats included Publix fried chicken, donuts, and soda—always called “pop.” He also treasured time spent with his friends, including Sam in Tampa and Gary Sabola and Stump in Cleveland, as well as his cousins Antonio and Elvin.

If Benny called you a true friend, you had a friend for life. He showed his love through his actions rather than through grand announcements. He had a way of appearing when you least expected anyone else to be there. He would quietly take care of something because he noticed—or overheard—that it was needed, often without asking for recognition. Whether you were his child, sibling, niece, nephew, cousin, or close friend, Benny had your back. Having him as a close friend was truly a blessing.

Above all, Benny loved his family. He was the father of Leslie “El Jay’Em” Maldonado and his sons, Michael and Adam Maldonado, and the grandfather of Aizen. His presence helped shape Leslie into the woman, mother, and community leader she became. As Aizen’s grandfather, Benny leaves behind a special connection and legacy that will continue through the stories, lessons, and memories shared with his grandson.

Benny will be remembered for his amazing smile, kindness, loyalty, and deep love for his family. He taught those who loved him to slow down, stop rushing, and appreciate every moment. His strength, service, quiet acts of love, and unforgettable spirit will continue through his children, his grandson, and everyone whose life he touched.

Benny was preceded in death by his grandparents, Telesforo Vélez and Maria Ramos and parents Gloria Maria Ramos and Bienvenido Maldonado.

He leaves to cherish his memory his daughter, Leslie Erin Jennings-Maldonado; his sons, Michael and Adam Maldonado; his grandson, Aizen; his beloved siblings, Luz Eneida Maldonado, Telesforo Maldonado, Miguel Angel Maldonado, Iris Violeta Maldonado, and Felix Maldonado; and his nieces and nephews Sony, David, Daniel, Steven, Steve, Vincent, Daniel, Jeremiah, Jedediah, Jennie, Jamie, Stephanie, Cynthia, Jacob, Damaris (Mari), Miguel (Mike), and cousins, extended family members, and lifelong friends.

Service Arrangements

A memorial gathering honoring Benny’s life will be held on Saturday, September 12, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m. at the funeral home located at:

20820 Lorain Road Fairview Park, Ohio 44126

A Celebration of Life and repast will follow at 5:00 p.m. at:

Bridge City Church 3381 Fulton Road Cleveland, Ohio 44109

Benny will be laid to rest with military honors on Monday, September 14, 2026, at 10:45 a.m. at:

Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery 10175 Rawiga Road Seville, Ohio 44273

Benny’s watch has ended, but his love and legacy remain.

Dad, your life mattered, your love remains, and your name will always be spoken. Rest peacefully. I will carry you with me wherever I go.

Once a Marine, always a Marine. Semper Fi.

Agenda/ Itenerary

Arrival 1-1:30

1:30-3:00pm memorial service we are asking family and friends to treat this like a joyous show and tell moment, and that they bring an item and a memory of joy to share with everyone about Benny Maldonado

Then following a celebration of life at 5pm at Bridge City Church

Set up begins at 3:30 for those who would like to help.