Benedict J. Renski Jr. 62, of Groton, went peacefully up to his Lord on April 7, 2006, surrounded by his loving family.
Born on October 8, 1943, at Lawrence and Memorial Hospital, New London, CT, he was the son of the late Benedict John and Leone B. (Michaud) Renski. He married his beloved wife, Ellen L. Ketchen, on 8/24/63.
Ben attended local Groton schools and graduated from Fitch Sr. High School in 1961. He was a star pitcher for his high school baseball team and at one time was invited to try out for the Mets. After graduation he enjoyed playing softball for the Groton recreation department. In addition to baseball and softball interests he was an accomplished bowler and as a young man was under sponsorship to become a professional bowler. He was inducted into the SE CT Association Bowlers Hall of Fame in 2004. He also enjoyed golfing and was an avid Red Sox fan.
He enjoyed a 37 year distinguished career with the US Postal Service before retiring on January 1, 2001.
He was a proud member of the BPOE, Lodge 2163, a past member of the Pioneer Hose Company #1, a communicant of St. Mary Mother of the Redeemer Church, and a member of the small Christian community group, The Pathfinders.
He loved vacationing with his family and enjoyed attending his grandchildren’s many sporting events and activities. He also loved music, dancing and was a devoted Elvis fan. He will be most fondly remembered for his big heart, sense of humor and quick wit. With his strength and courage, he was an inspiration to all.
In addition to his beloved wife, he is survived by his loving children Benedict J. Renski III (wife Mary), David W. Renski (wife Rebecca), Lori M. Burton (husband Skip) and Michelle L. Renski (John McCoy, fiancée), his brothers Ronald J. Renski (wife Audrey) and Raymond M. Renski (wife Dale); and his sister Pearl I. Rathbun (husband George).
He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren Eva and Emily Renski, Michael and Matthew Dyer, David Renski Jr., and Kristen M. Burton.
His family will greet relatives and friends at The Dinoto Funeral Home, 17 Pearl Street, Historic downtown Mystic on Monday from 5-8pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Mary Mother of the Redeemer Church, 69 Groton Long Point Rd., Groton, CT on Tuesday at 10am. Internment will follow at the Lambtown Cemetery, Ledyard. Donations may be made to the Juvenile Diabetes Association, or the St. Mary Mother of the Redeemer Church Building Fund.
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