John J. Benanti, age 94, passed away peacefully on Tuesday August 20th 2013 at Pope John Paul Care Center surrounded by his loving family. Born July 17th, 1919 in Manhattan, NY he overcame the hardships of the Great Depression and the death of his father at age 11 by working as a shoeshine boy and Western Union Messenger to help support his family. He later went on to proudly serve his country during WWII in the 511th Airborne Parachute Infantry, earning a Bronze Star and Purple Heart along with several other combat medals. His famous “Fighting Angels” division launched at Camp Mackall, N.C., February 25, 1943, was responsible for successful campaigns in New Guinea, Leyte and Luzon and ultimately selected to spearhead the occupation forces into Japan on August 30th, 1945, four days before the surrender was formally signed. John married the former Evelyn R. Tecl in September 1946 and soon moved to Putnam Lake, NY to raise a family of three during their 66 year marriage. He spent 30 plus years working at The Barden Corporation in Danbury, CT making world renowned precision ball bearings and was actively involved in the local VFW Post including serving several terms as the Post Commander. In retirement they moved to Newtown, CT to be closer to family. He is survived by his sister Tena Sullivan, half-brother Jack Montera, daughter Laura-Jean Benanti with family Paul and Marie, sons John Benanti Jr. with partner Dorothy, Lawrence Benanti with wife Mary Jane, two grandsons Anthony Rhew and Adam Thomson-Benanti and many other adoring family members. Calling hours are Monday, Aug 26th 4pm to 7pm at the Honan Funeral Home, 58 Main Street, Newtown CT. A private mass and interment of John’s and Evelyn’s ashes will be held at a later date in September. In lieu of flowers if you wish, donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association at http://www.alz.org/join_the_cause_donate.asp To leave online condolences visit www. honanfh.com

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