Edward R. Benesh

Edward R. Benesh, 85 Rockford Edward R. Benesh, 85 ofRockford, died at 8:00 p.m. Monday June 22, 2009 at PA Peterson Center for Health.  Born September 17, 1923 inOregon, IL to Charles and Anna (Raska) Benesh. Graduated from Oregon High School Class of 1941. Joined the US Army serving 2 years in the South Pacific before being discharged in 1946 in rank as 1 st sergeant, receiving the Purple Heart for wounds received in the Battle of Layte in the Philippine Islands.  MarriedLena (Buttacavoli) Benesh on September 14, 1946. Employed for 46 years in Inventory Control for National Lock. Member of St. Bernadette Catholic Church. Lifelong member of the LLL Club. A lifelong Chicago Cubs and Bears fan. After his retirement he spent many happy summers growing delicious vegetables for his family and friends while he listened to the Cubbies on the radio. Survivors; Wife;Lena, Daughter; Patricia Benesh and Son; Richard (Ruth) Benesh, Grandchildren; Eric, Brett and Joshua Benesh.  Numerous nieces and nephews. Predeceased by his parents and brothers; Otto, George and James. A special Thank You to his nieces Marsha Benesh and Barbara (Giorgi)Vella and to neighbors Jerry and Carol Lindstrom who did so much. Ed was a wonderful husband, father and grandfather who will be missed dearly. Funeral Mass 10:00 a.m. Friday June 26, 2009 at St. Bernadette Catholic Church. Visitation will be from 8:30 a.m. until 9:45 a.m. at the church. Burial in Calvary Catholic Cemetery .