Richard (“Dick”) Albert Benet passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, in the early morning of December 14, 2023 at 94 years old. Born on July 16, 1929 to Bernard Benet and Armande Brûlé in Manhattan, New York, he was raised in Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
He joined the United States Air Force at 18 years old, and served for 20 years, retiring as a Master Sergeant. In his retirement, he enjoyed fishing, reading, and playing poker.
Dick is preceded in death by his daughter, Linda Benet Coyner, and his grandson, Joseph Jude Ritzenthaler. He is survived by his wife, Augusta “Tina” Benet, four daughters–Helen Goodman (Carey), Laura Ritzenthaler (Joseph), Mary Westerman (David), Dayna O’Neill (Brian)–and one son, Richard Albert Benet II. Additionally, he will be missed by his 11 grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren, with a 13th on the way. At Dick’s request, there will be no funeral services.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that individuals make a donation in his name to the Bon Secours Hampton Roads Foundation to thank the medical team who cared for him so well.