Michael Terry DeBenedetto

Debenedetto, Michael(October 25, 1956—October 4, 2012)

Captain Michael Terry DeBenedetto lost his battle with pancreatic cancer and died peacefully on October 4, 2014, in Bloomington, Utah at the age of 57. Michael was born to Salvatore and Olive DeBenedetto on October 25, 1956, in Chicago, Illinois.

He is survived by his father Salvatore DeBenedetto, step mother Phoebe Muto, siblings Sheila Bryson, Paula DeBenedetto and Lexi DeBenedetto, brother-in-law Russ Oloffson, nieces Isabel and Olivia Matheson, nephews Ben Oloffson and Anthony Matheson and his beloved dog Minnie.

On August 22, 2014, he married his long time love Brenda Bracken who survives him as well as step children Steven and Justin Foremaster, Wendy Sullivan and Lynette Quilter; seven step grandchildren, and three step great-grandchildren.

Michael was predeceased by his mother Olive who died of cancer in 1959, step mother Darlene DeBenedetto who died of cancer in 2012, Joe his cherished dog who died in 2002 and cherished dog Paper who died in 2009.

After Michael finished high school in Aurora, Illinois, he joined the Navy; Michael loved his country and was very patriotic. He enjoyed various careers throughout his short life while residing on both coasts in Florida, Arizona, Oregon and Utah. Michael had a passion for wildlife and the outdoors, feeling at one with mother nature. Michael enjoyed boating, horseback riding, hiking, fishing, hunting and watching wildlife all with respect for God’s creatures. Michael enjoyed the water; he held careers as a Marine Merchant officer, a fisherman and a professional diver. He was committed to helping those in need, whether it was a four-legged animal or a stranger on the street. He would offer what he could, even if that meant he would have less for himself.

Michael was protective of his loved ones and also protective of the underdog or anything or anyone he perceived as vulnerable. His protective spirit will never be forgotten. Michael was a member of the VFW, the Jaycee’s and the American Legion.

Funeral Services

  • The immediate family would like to invite family and friends to celebrate Michael’s life on Oct. 25, from 6-8 p.m. at Soul Café, 7615 East Pinnacle Peak Road, Scottsdale, Arizona.

In lieu of flowers the family asks that a donation be made in Michael’s name to Best Friends Animal Society, 5001 Angel Canyon Road, Kanab, Utah 84741. Please write, Attention: Sheila Bush.

Arrangements entrusted to the care of Spilsbury Mortuary. For condolences, full obituary, and funeral listings please visit the Spilsbury Mortuary website.

 

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