Richard S. Benedetto

Richard S. “Rich” Benedetto, 64, of Columbus, O., formerly of Dennison, died Thursday, October 8, 2009, in Columbus, following a courageously fought battle with cancer.

Born December 9, 1944 in Dennison, he was a son of the late Alfonso and Lulu (Spinell) Benedetto who relished his Italian heritage and all of the many facets of its culture.

Rich grew up in Dennison, was a former member of Immaculate Conception Church, and was a graduate of St. Mary’s High School in the class of 1963 where he had been active in the school's athletic programs, playing football and basketball. He then furthered his education at Ohio University.

For much of his adult life, Rich was a resident of Columbus and had also lived in London, O. for several years where he was a member of the London Country Club. He was an avid fan of the Ohio State Buckeyes and loved watching their football and basketball games.

Rich is survived by his wife of twenty-six years, Betsy Benedetto of the home; a daughter, Michelle Batt and her husband, Andy, of Columbus; a son, Rob Benedetto and his wife, Jen, of Columbus; a sister, Connie Vincent of Dennison; and a host of dear family including aunts, an uncle, nieces, nephews and cousins, as well as many friends and neighbors.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held for Rich on Monday, October 12, at Our Lady of Victory Church in Upper Arlington, O. with burial following at Resurrection Cemetery in Columbus.

Those wishing to honor Rich’s memory by a charitable contribution are encouraged to do so to HomeReach Hospice of Riverside Hospital in Columbus and Immaculate Conception Church’s Capital Campaign. Friends wishing to express their condolences to Rich’s family may leave a message for them at the online registry at www.lindseyfh.com.