John “Smokey” Benigas, Hermitage, died at 11:20 p.m. Friday, Aug. 15, 2008, in UPMC Horizon, Farrell, after an extended illness. He was 81.

Mr. Benigas was born May 31, 1927, in New Castle, a son of Bennett and Elizabeth (DeBenedetto) Benigas.

A 1945 graduate of New Castle High School, he went on to serve our country in the U.S. Navy as a seaman first class.

Smokey retired from the former Sharon Transformer division of Westinghouse Electric Corp. in 1985 after 35 total years, working 22 of those years as a coil winder.

He was a member of the First Assembly of God, Hermitage, and in his spare time, he enjoyed being an avid gardener, hunter and fisherman.

Survivors include: his wife, Patricia J. (Starr) Benigas, whom he married May 9, 1980; his sons, Pastor John Benigas and his wife Wendy, Hubbard; and Mark Benigas and his wife Cheryl, Chicago; his stepchildren, Dan Sumner, Sharon; Carol Peterson, Hermitage; Kelly McQuiston, Hermitage; and Carl Sumner, Erie; and his 16 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, Pat, Joe and Anthony Benigas; his sister, Mary Blair; and his former wife, Esther (Molinari) Benigas.

As an expression of sympathy, the family suggests contributions be made to the Family Hospice and Palliative Care, 1965 Shenango Valley Freeway, Hermitage 16148.

BENIGAS

John “Smokey,” 81, of Hermitage.

Calling hours: None. Family and friends can send condolences to www.madaszchapel.com

Service: Private family services will be held at a later date.

Arrangements by LANE FUNERAL HOMES, MADASZ CHAPEL, 6923 Warren-Sharon Road, Brookfield.