Salvatore Benenati Obituary

Salvatore Benenati

March 8, 1934 - September 22, 2023

Modesto, California - Salvatore Benenati 89, passed away peacefully at his home on September 22, 2023. Salvatore (Sal) was born on March 8, 1934 in Vita Sicily to parents Giacomo /Jack Benenati and Caterina Carollo Benenati. He was a loving father, Grandfather brother, Uncle, and friend to all. He is survived by his wife of 62 years Rose Benenati and 2 children Cathy Ann Denier (Fred) of Galt. And, Jack Benenati of Modesto. 3 Grandchildren Jon Denier & Trevor Denier of Galt. And Gabriella Benenati of Ceres. And many nieces and nephews and one sister in law Laura Benenati of Modesto.

Sal came to America in 1952 along with his sister Rosa by ship through Ellis Island in New York. There they met a friend who connected them by train where they traveled to California through Donner Pass and onto Modesto. There he lived for the next 71 years. When first arrived in Modesto, he has many different jobs the cannery, sold magazines, and work with helping other Italian Americans He also, took English classes at Modesto High School at night and also ballroom dancing lessons that became a life long passion for many years. He loved the 50's music and the cool cars of that era. He first car was a 1956 Oldsmobile Classic. In 1959 he met the love of his life at the Swiss Club of Modesto ( Uri's Gove) Rose Orlando and her sister Joann, and brother Phil Orlando who was in the band. They married on November 8,1959 at St. Francis of Rome Church in Riverbank, CA. They had the Big Italian wedding with all the trimmings. He was proud of his heritage and joined many Italian Clubs in the area the Dante Club, and the Bari Club in 1973 he joined the Lodi Italian Club where was a lifetime member. There he enjoyed helping cook many meals for the guests and friends with his own 'tailgate' bar outside during the breaks.

He started his own business in the 1960's Snap On Awning and Blind Co. out of his home. and in 1969 joined the Lions 500 Club of Modesto and gain new friends and work on community service projects to serve various non-profits events and also went on fun trips with members. He later joined the staff at the Modesto City Schools as a custodian and mechanic and many friends. In his pastime he loved BBQ's with family and friends and making homemade tomato sauce in the summers teaching his grandkids and friends. In his later years he went on many camping and fishing trips to stream fish and play cards at night. He retired after 25 years with the MCS and then started the casino 'bus' trips with is groups and a great time.

Finally in 1989, he became a U.S. Citizen and was a special day. He lived a full life, and had a generous heart and big smile for everyone , he will be greatly missed by all and forever in our many many memories. May you rest in peace.

On October 5th, 2023 visitation will be held at Salas Bro Chapel, from 5:00 – 7:00 pm and a Reciting of the Rosary will be at 6:00 PM. On October 6th a Funeral Mass will be held at St. Joseph's Catholic Church at 10:00 am. 1813 Oakdale Rd. Modesto. And, a graveside service will follow at the St. Stanislaus Catholic Cemetery, Scenic Drive.