John S. “Johnny Dee” DiBenedetto, 89, passed away on Friday, May 20, 2011 in St. Mary’s Healthcare Center surrounded by his loving family. He leaves his wife of 57 years, Patricia A. (Doherty) DiBenedetto; a son, John J. DiBenedetto and his former wife Cheryl; a daughter, Diane and her husband Paul Cotter of Paxton; four grandchildren, Robert, Sheena-Rae, Jeannine, and Paul; two great grandchildren, Tyler and Toni-Lyn; a sister, Victoria and her husband Anthony DiPino of CT; a brother, Anthony and his wife Vera DiBenedetto of FL; a sister-in-law, Gloria DiBenedetto, and his dear friend, Fred Potente whom he thought of as a son. John also leaves many nieces, nephews, wonderful neighbors, and his beloved dog, Boo Boo Bear. John was predeceased by a brother, Gerald DiBenedetto and two sisters, Madeline Cretella and Mary Pascale.

John was born in New Haven, CT, son of Vincent and Philomena (Savino) DiBenedetto. He graduated from Hillhouse High School in New Haven, CT and Stones Business College. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Army during WWII. “Johnny Dee”, as he was affectionately known, worked for many years as the Theater Manager at Lowes Poli Theatre and then worked as the Senior Assistant Assessor for the City of Worcester. He spoke fondly of all those with whom he worked and in particular John Wall, whom he greatly admired. He was a member of Our Lady of the Rosary, was an avid animal lover, and loved spending time with the Aboody family and friends at the El Morocco.

The family wish to acknowledge Dr. Gerald Gleich and his staff for years of wonderful care, the staff of UMASS-Clinton Hospital Geriatric Unit and St. Mary’s Nursing Home in Worcester for providing such wonderful care for John. Also, John’s family wishes to express sincere gratitude to the management and staff of the Hanover Theater, on the renovation and restoration of the grand theater and in particular for the private tour provided John and his family.

Friends and relatives are invited to attend calling hours on Wednesday, May 25, 2011 from 5:00-8:00 p.m. in Nordgren Memorial Chapel 300 Lincoln St., Worcester. A funeral Mass will be held on Thursday, May 26, 2011 at 10:00 a.m. in Our Lady of The Rosary, 25 Fales St., Worcester. Burial with military honors will follow in Worcester County Memorial Park, Paxton. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Worcester Animal Rescue League, 139 Holden St., Worcester, MA 01606.