Ronald Olaf Benneche

Ben was born on October 30, 1936 in Redding, California and passed away on April 13, 2026with his family gathered around to provide a comfortable send of to join his savior Jesus Christ in the Kingdom of Heaven. Ben graduated from Shasta High School in 1955 and retired from Citizens Utilities Co. of California and maintained a home in Shasta Lake with his wife Kay of 66 years.

Ben belonged to the Redding Elks Lodge #1030 for 30+ years. He was preceded in death by the love of his like Kay and son Christopher. He is survived by his daughter Jo Ann Bertucci (Tony), his sister Gloria Horner (Harold), eight grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.

Dad truly died of a broken heart after mom passed on March 29, 2026. Now they are united for eternity, hand in hand. Below is a poem he had attached to his obituary that he wrote himself.

EMPTY ARMS

These empty arms are aching to hold you

Emptiness and loneliness fills me

Nothing to hold and nothing to love

Just my prayers that continue to guide me

You fit in my arms so perfectly

Us two, we were quite a pair

Our love withstood the test of time

And then you were no longer there

If I could hold you in my arms

Have your love surrounding me

With you right by my side

I'd be in Heaven can't you see?

My life was sweet, my life was full

Having you in my life

You were my wife, my partner, my lover, and my friend

The one who loved me just as I am

My heart was filled and I was blessed

The day you said "yes"

I hugged you, I held you, we danced together

In my arm, you were a sweet caress

Empty arms is all I have

Until I'm by your side

And when I get there, I'll take your hand

And ask, "Can I have this dance for the rest of my life?"