Obituary of Ronald D Benevento

Ronald D. Benevento of North Reading, formerly of Lynn and Saugus, passed away after a lengthy illness with his family by his side on Monday, January 20, 2025. He was 83 years old.

 

Born in Lynn, MA, Ron was the son of the late Dominic P. Benevento and Mildred Mary (McIsaac) Benevento. He enjoyed a wonderful childhood growing up in Lynn and was a proud graduate of Lynn Classical High School, Class of 1960. While at Lynn Classical, he was known for his football skills and earned the playful nickname "The Fickle Pickle." As an alumnus, he remained dedicated to his alma mater, generously supporting the Lynn Classical Scholarship Foundation.

 

In September of 1960, Ron enlisted in the U.S. Navy and proudly served during a pivotal time, including his deployment to Cuba during the Bay of Pigs Invasion in 1961. He spoke often of his time in service, sharing countless stories from his military experience. He was a recipient of the Expeditionary Medal, Armed Forces Defense Ribbon, and the Navy Expeditionary Medal. After his honorable discharge in 1962, Ron continued his service in the Naval National Guard. Ron was also a proud lifetime member of the VFW Post 2346, where he served in various leadership roles including Jr. Vice, Sr. Vice, and Commander. He actively participated in ceremonial events, parades, charity drives, and services to honor fallen veterans.

 

Ron pursued Criminal Justice studies at North Shore Community College. He had a long and distinguished career, notably as a special police officer in Lynn for 10 years, a Nationally Registered EMT-A, and a technician at G.E., where he worked as an aircraft jet engine technician and GE ambassador, giving tours to dignitaries. Ron retired from General Electric after over 30 years of service, having been an active member of the IUE Local 201 and serving as Steward for more than a decade.

 

In addition to his career, Ron was the General Manager and part-owner of Pennybrook Gardens, an apartment complex in Saugus, for over 40 years. Living on-site, he took immense pride in making it a welcoming and well-maintained place for tenants. He was known for his personal touch, always available to assist residents, and ensuring that the community ran smoothly. Ron’s kindness and generosity extended beyond the property, offering financial assistance and guidance to those in need. He also valued the relationships he built with contractors, often helping them grow their businesses.

He enjoyed helping people in need and freelance writing. He often shared his thoughts and opinions with letters to senators, congressmen, local politicians, and columns in the newspapers.

 

A lifelong sports enthusiast, Ron was particularly passionate about football. Although he had no children in the program, he dedicated many years to coaching the West Lynn National League and West Lynn Pop Warner Football teams, where he instilled in his players the values of discipline, teamwork, and sportsmanship.

 

Ron was also an avid traveler and adventurer, living life to the fullest. He enjoyed skiing in North Conway, boating on Lake Ossippee, and spending time in St. Croix. His travels took him to many destinations, including Europe, Croatia, Egypt, Spain, the French Riviera, Bermuda, and the Caribbean. He skied, biked, golfed, danced, and fished, embracing every moment. He often remarked, "Life was quite a trip, and I loved it."

Ron’s final words were, “I’ve done everything I wanted to do, and more, I feel so fortunate.  I am so lucky to have you guys, I love my family.”

 

Ron shared a special bond with his wife Theresa (Coppola). From the moment they met, and he asked her to dance, they were inseparable, sharing 39 years of marriage, living as devoted partners and best friends.

 

He was the loving father of Leah Benevento of Ridge City, Texas, and Jennifer Millett and her husband Erik of Wakefield. Ron was the proud grandfather of Simone, Taylor and Kami, and a great-grandfather. He is also survived by his siblings, Vincent Benevento of Stratham, NH, and Dolores Benevento of Stratham, NH, as well as many cherished friends. Ron was predeceased by his sister, Susan Maguire.

 

At Ron’s request, there will be no funeral services. Those wishing to honor his memory may make a contribution in his name to the Lynn Classical Scholarship Foundation at https://www.lynnclassicalalumni.org/donate. Arrangements are under the direction of the Edward V. Sullivan Funeral Home, Burlington.