Benedict J. "Benny" D'Acunto

Mr. Benedict J. “Benny” D’Acunto, age 83, of Utica, went home to be with the Lord and was reunited with his wife when he passed away on Monday, July 18, 2011. His passing occurred at the St. Elizabeth Medical Center with his loving family by his side. Born in Utica on November 9, 1927, Benedict was the son of the late Alexandro and Rose (Bonacci) D’Acunto. He was raised and educated locally. A veteran of the United States Army, he was trained as a boxer during his time in service and proudly served his country stationed in the Fiji Islands. On April 16, 1955 he married the former Bertha A. Bashaw with whom he shared 53 years prior to her passing on June 9, 2008. Benny and Bertha were a united couple who held hands as a sign of affection and love, and often referred to each other as their ‘better half’. A great provider and a hard worker, Benny had numerous jobs significantly with Metzger Construction, M.W.P.I., as well as several other area businesses. A man who was genuinely selfless in his giving, his charity began at home. He supported the needs of many and believed in the sanctity of family bonds, always holding dear and honoring the relationships with his loved ones. Blessed with a gentle heart and spirit, Benny had a great smile and he always respected people. He was a savvy shopper, and when he found a great deal he shared it with everyone. He enjoyed games of chance and the sport of horseracing, and was a member of the American Legion Post #1113 and the Malson Jones VFW Post #7393, NY Mills. He was a member of the Faith in Christ Fellowship Church. Benny is survived by his children and their families, Benedict J. Jr. and Mary D’Acunto of Utica, Patricia A. and Frank J. Gaetano, Jr. of Rome, Rose A. D’Acunto, Anthony W. D’Acunto, Donna L. D’Acunto and fiancé Tony Giacovelli, and Malvena J. and Tom DiMambro, all of Utica; his grandchildren, Mary; Jessica, Britanny, and Kevin; Anthony, Brandon, Courtney, and Marissa; Gina and Dan Fenton, Cheryl and Mike Camaino, and Chuck Gaetano; and his great-granddaughter, Janasya. In addition, he leaves his sister, Frances Dixon; his nieces and nephews especially acknowledging, Mary Ann and Jim Quinn, Terri and Joe Peplinski, and Vicki and Carl Bashaw; great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and in-laws, Felix J. “Phil” Vennero, Joseph Rabbia, and Carolyn and John Wagner. He was blessed with many friendships, especially acknowledging Anthony and Genevieve DiMambro. He was predeceased by his brothers and sisters-in-law, Dr. Ralph D’Acunto, Anthony and Catherine “Dolly” D’Acunto, and Ernest and Arlene D’Acunto; his sisters, Rachel Vennero, and Melvina Rabbia; and his in-laws. The family expresses gratitude to Dr. Bhisham Garg, the nurses and staff of the St. Elizabeth Medical Center, especially Debbie Graziano, and the Rehabilitation personnel at the Charles T. Sitrin Home. Visitation will be held Thursday (today) from 4:00-7:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Members of the Malson Jones VFW Post #7393, NY Mills will assemble for prayer services at 6:00 and the American Legion Post #1113 at 6:30. Those wishing to express an act of kindness may make a donation to the Rescue Mission of Utica; envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Benny’s funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Friday morning at 11:00 at the funeral home with Pastor John Kelly of the Faith in Christ Fellowship Church officiating. Committal prayers and interment will follow graveside in Calvary Cemetery with Military Honors conferred.

Benedict J. "Benny" D'Acunto

November 9, 1927 - July 18, 2011