I'm so sorry to hear of Mr. Benfanti's passing. He was one of my favorite teachers... the Italian kids, we were always good while in his classroom. He was one of the best. Mr. B, if you're reading this from heaven, I did actually learn something when I showed up for class. Yours is one of the few classes I knew I couldn't skip out on. :) thank you for great memories and it makes me sad that there aren't many teachers like you left in the world. -"Miss Reno" <3

I had the privilege of being Russell's instructor at the YMCA most recently. I just heard the news of his passing and I am shocked and saddened about it. Gosh, I loved being able to help him try to get stronger & stronger! We connected instantly in my class, I took him right under my wing! God Bless him.....he will surely be missed at the Y.

It was a pleasure working with Russ over the years. I know Russ loved teaching, but I think he enjoyed retirement just a tad more :). Rest in Peace.

Dear Benfanti Family,
We were sorry to hear of the loss of your father.  His smiling face will be missed.
Mary Pizzuto Ciamaga

Dear Benfanti Family,
It was a sad voice mail that I received this morning from Father Fred. Unfortunately we were unable to attend the memorial mass but there are so many good memories--the laughs we had with Russ and Charlie while working at Nativity--the New Years parties at Costanzo's and Uncle Bill's --the many dinners over the years--so many good times. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

I taught with your dad for many years.  He didn't usually know it, but I would often stand outside his door and listen to him pretend that he just didn't understand something in the reading and then his "kids" would start incredible discussions.  Another anecdote was that he knew I often went to Maria's bakery for a loaf of knotted Italian bread.  He loved that bread so I bought him o loaf and gave it to him at school.  Later that day I passed his room and discovered Russ had his hand in his desk drawer and was breaking off large pieces and trying to down mouthfuls without the kids noticing.
I'm sorry I didn't get to the wake or funeral, but there was a good reaso - I saw your dad at Wegman's a few weeks ago and stopped him.  We went through a few good memories and I could see tha he was the same old Russ with a great sense of humor and that wonderful laugh of his.  THAT is how I wanted to remember him.  What a great guy!

Russ was a dear cousin.  We were quite close growing up and he always made us all laugh.  The sound of his laughter is missed as is he.  My deepest sympathy to all his family.
Cousin Martha (Marti) Randazzo

Soo sorry for the loss of your father.  He will be missed and it was a privilege to have known him. Rest in Peace Russ

I did not know Russell but I work for his son, Paul Benfanti, MD, I am so sorry for your loss. It is nice read such wonderful things about Mr Benfanti.  He raised a fine son, someone with kindness and great knowledge.

In all of the years that we have had the honor of knowing Russell, he has always been a joy to be with and a true gentelmen. He was devoted to his family, and took great delight in each of their many, many accomplishments. Russ was always loving and caring toward our daughter, Amy, and was a precious and deeply loved Grandfather to our mutual grandchildren. We will forever miss Russell and his sense of humor and the sound of his laughter. Blessings and peace be with the entire Benfanti family.

Bob and Phyllis Craiglow, Florida

It has been over 20 years since I sat in Mr. Benfanti's class. His ability to make characters come alive still to this day inspires me.  A brilliant man who will always have a special place in my heart.

Loved your dad!!! Ill always think of him when I say "104 is in the door!! He would say ... Say it Gracie

It was such a privilege to live nextdoor to Russ these past twelve years.  He was a wonderful neighbor and friend, and we will miss him terribly.  We regret that we cannot be at his services on Wednesday, but please know that our thoughts and prayers are with your whole family. God bless you.

Mr. Benfanti is one teacher that I remember from my high school days. He made learning fun and gave me a love for reading. My son was also fortunate to have been taught by Mr. B. Rest in peace. Condolences from our family.

Russ was the cousin that made me laugh to tears.. always  fun growing up.. He is with his twin Charles now.. Rest in peace dear cousin.

To all the Benfanti's...I was so sorry to hear about your Dad. He wa a wonderful man, and I will cherish all the times e had when we were young when we got to see Uncle Russ... they are memories that will give me happy memories of simpler times and I hope they help all of you during this sad time. Please remember the Anastasia family is here for you all.

 My condolences to the whole entire family. Your dad was a great man and I was lucky enough to run into him  at Roswell Park a couple of months ago. We talked for awhile at that point, just catching up and he was so full of life and kindness just like I remembered him growing up. So sorry to hear of his passing. Love to all, Maria Comaratta McCormack

To the entire Benfanti Family,
We did not know your Dad, but he sure raised a fine family.  We are so sorry for your loss.  Our deepest condolences.

To the entire Benfanti Family,
We send our condolences.  I didn't know your Dad, but he raised a fine family.  So sorry for your loss.

It was an honor to be Russ's nurse for the years I cared for him. He was full of enlightening conversation, obvious love of his family, and an absolute sense of humor that had me laughing every time. It was a joy and an honor to know Russ. We talked about everything from the frustrations of education to the latest medication side effect to which James Patterson novel was better - we would disagree regarding literature. He had wonderful stories and he loved his family!  His children were the light in his heart. He was so proud of each of his children and more proud of the grand children's latest accomplishments! In his last year, he wanted his home and the peace and freedom it represented." I just want to sit in my own home and read a book". A simple desire. He was blessed to fulfill that simple desire. His children and grandchildren are a testimony of the love he shared - he would say " family is everything. Cherish every single moment ". He did and I will in his memory.

I'm so sorry to hear of your loss. My deepest sympathy and condolences to the family during this time of grief. John 5: 28.

OBITUARY

Russell Anthony Benfanti Sr.

April 12, 1934 – July 22, 2015

Perna, Dengler, Roberts Funeral Home

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