CUYAHOGA FALLS -John Peter Bena crossed over peacefully on Jan. 30, 2008 surrounded by priest and loved ones. He was born on Oct. 17, 1922 in N.Y., N.Y.
Son of John and Therese. Brother to Frank, Rudy, Annie and Eleanor.
A devout Catholic, family man and patriot with a passion for history, science , travel and the ocean. Attended parochial school, was an alter boy and sang in the choir.
Graduated High School at 15. He had a natural ability for leadership and doing more than two things at one time. A champion golden gloves boxer and ice hockey player. An officer and a gentleman who proudly served in WWII fighting in the Atlantic and Pacific.
Strikingly handsome with blonde hair and boyish grin, he was the perfect GI JOE poster boy. Nicknamed "General Blue Eyes" for his beautiful electric sky blue eyes and quick sense of humor. Always the overachiever and GQ dresser.
He wore many hats in his adult life. Army officer, fireman, policeman, postmaster, forest ranger, engineer, businessman.
A graduate of Dulaney University Law School.
Preceeded in death by beloved wife Frances and sons Peter and Jack. Survived by daughter Teena Angellique of Cuyahoga Falls, special best friend Wilma and her brother Ron. Adopted family Debbie, Annie and Shirley AKA "Mrs Radish".
After returning to Ohio from Florida in 2000, the little family was inseparable continuously traveling and building cherished memories.
Surely John is a shining star in heaven as he was on earth. He will be dearly loved and missed forever.
Mass will be held at Immaculate Heart of Mary in Cuyahoga Falls at 12:00 NOON Friday followed by a graveside service at Holy Cross Cemetery with taps and 21 gun salute by American Legion Charles Faust Post 281.