Phillip P. Beno

Mr. Phillip P. Beno, a proud Pearl Harbor survivor, age 93, and formerly of Eleanor Pl., passed away on Thursday, December 5, 2013 at the St. Luke’s Home with his family by his side. Born in Utica on September 20, 1920, Phillip was the son of the late Charles and Angela (Giacovelli) Beno. Raised and educated locally, he graduated from high school in Johnstown, NY. He and his family moved from the Utica area while he was in high school, to operate the family concern, Beno’s Restaurant in Johnstown where he worked alongside his father. A veteran of World War II, he proudly served his country in the United States Navy stationed aboard the seaplane tender USS Tangier, a member of the Pacific Fleet moored at Pearl Harbor. The crew of the Tangier was in the fight from the very beginning as it was moored next to the USS Utah. Phillip was blessed to be a Pearl Harbor survivor, one of the few remaining. The attack on December 7, 1941 played a major role in influencing how he lived his life. He subsequently re-enlisted with the Naval Reserves and was honorably discharged in 1953. On April 7, 1945, in California, he married the former Lucy J. Rosato, his childhood sweetheart whom he met in the 7th grade at Wetmore School. Theirs was a marriage graced by great love, constant care, and deep dedication to each other and to their family. They remained united in their 67-year union until Lucy’s passing on May 6, 2012. Upon completion of his military duty, Phillip worked for the New York State Department of Taxation & Finance for over 30 years as a State Tax Auditor, the position from which he retired. A proud patriarch and a warm and caring man, he was always eager to make others feel loved and appreciated. He shared a genuine concern for others. His happiest moments were those spent hosting or attending family gatherings at home or at the homes of relatives, both in Utica and Johnstown. His family will remember his wonderful sense of humor, and his unique storytelling, especially of his meritorious military career and his meticulous, and sometimes adventurous, work career. Phillip’s loved ones brought harmony to his life and he loved and cherished them. His family and those who knew him will remember his exceptional generosity and the happiness he found in giving whatever was needed to those who shared life with him. At one time, Phillip was an active outdoorsman who took to the fields and streams to hunt and fish. He also enjoyed working and crafting with wood, sharing his creations and carpentry skills with family and friends. He was a faithful parishioner of the former St. Agnes Parish participating in its events and fundraisers as well as assisting with financial matters and business operations of the church. He was a member of the American Legion Post #229. Phillip is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Charles W. and Gwen Beno of North Utica; his grandchildren, Dr. Kevin T. Mahoney and his wife, Dr. Christine Kilczewski of PA, and Korynne Mahoney of N. Utica; and his great-grandchildren, Rowan Mahoney and Scout Adele Mahoney. In addition, he leaves his sister, Betty Moane of Fort Plain, NY; many nieces and nephews including Charles “Chuck” and Susan Beno, Dr. Barbara Beno, Dr. Jeanne Beno and Alan Siracusa, Linda Beno, Kathleen Beno-Maxson, Cynthia Beno-Persico, Dr. Christopher Peckins, Angela Peckins-Sample, William and Janice Rosato, Steven and Barbara Rosato, Andrew and Suzanne Rosato, David and Michelle Rosato, Miriam and Ken Dell, Patricia and James Livecchi, and Catherine and Dave Florek; great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and in-laws, Josephine “Lily” Rosato, and Daniel “Dan” Rosato, both of Utica, Anthony and Carmella Rosato of Whitesboro, Dennis and Victoria Rosato of NJ, and Marilyn Fairbanks-Singer-Cohen of FL. He was predeceased by his brothers and sisters-in-law, Peter Beno and his spouses, Rose and Florence; and Joseph and Helen Beno; sister, Toni Peckins-Wallace; nephew, Phillip W. Rosato; in-laws, Phillip O. and Mary Ann Rosato, Elen A. Rosato, and Frank Moane; and his father-in-law and mother-in-law, William and Rosemary Rosato. The family wishes to thank the doctors, nurses, certified nursing assistants, and all those who assisted and offered loving care to Mr. Beno during his time at the St. Luke’s Home, especially acknowledging the staff of Barton East. A special thank you is offered to Leanore Checchi for all the love and care given to Phillip and Lucy over the years. Visitation will be held Thursday from 4:00-7:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Phillip's funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Friday morning at 10:30 from the funeral home and at 11:30 at St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church where his Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Rev. Mark Kaminski. Military honors will be conferred by the United States Navy. Interment will take place in St. Agnes Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Phillip P. Beno

September 20, 1920 - December 5, 2013