Obituaries

Waterford – Donald “Don” Joseph Benvenuti Sr., 88, died peacefully at his Waterford home with his family by his side on Saturday, Jan. 6, 2018. He was the husband of the late Carolyn (Balestracci) Benvenuti, originally of Mystic, with whom he married on Oct. 17, 1953. After 60 years of marriage, Carolyn died in 2 013 .

Born in New London, on May 14, 1929, he was the son of Frank and Helen (Richard) Benvenuti. Don was a graduate of the Bulkeley School in New London, Class of 1947, and then attended the University of Rhode Island, where he graduated in 1951 with a bachelor of science degree in industrial management. He worked in the excavation and paving industry, originally for his father and uncle, before going into business with his brother, Richard. Eventually, Don starting his own company, which became Don Benvenuti and Son, Inc.

A lifelong fan of auto racing, he competed in dirt track races throughout the northeast in the early 1950s, and for a time was part owner of the Waterford Speedbowl. In addition, he was a member of Pequot Engine Co., No. 6 and the Italian Dramatic Club in New London. He and his wife were avid fans of the UConn Women’s Basketball team and would routinely attend games to cheer on the Lady Huskies. Don loved spending time with his family and took pride in his Fourth of July bashes, which included his famous Rhode Island clam chowder and an extravagant fireworks display, sometimes to the dismay of his neighbors. Being an animal lover, he spent his later years accompanied by his beloved cats, Oliver, followed by Cookie. Don was also very grateful to his caregivers, Jody, Sagan and Dashia, along with his nurse, Karen, for making it possible to live at home until his final days.

He is survived by his children, Kathy Carboni and Donna Alfera; son-in-law, Dennis Alfera; grandchildren, Steve Appleby, Erin Johnston and her husband, Brian Johnston, Dave Benvenuti, Jeff Benvenuti, Nick Alfera and his wife, Allyson, and Chris Alfera; nephew, Richard Benvenuti Jr.; niece, Joanne Colsen; and brother-in-law, Peter Balestracci and his wife, Joan.

He was predeceased by his son and best friend, Donald “Donnie” Benvenuti Jr. in 1991; and a brother, Richard Benvenuti Sr.

His family will receive guests at 9 a.m. Saturday morning, at the Impellitteri-Malia Funeral Home, 84 Montauk Ave., New London, followed by at funeral home service at 10 a.m. Interment is private.