CHEWELAH, Wash. — John “Bene” Benedetto, born Feb. 6, 1922 in Chisholm to Fiorindo and Erminia DiBenedetto, passed away July 5.

His life centered on his family, music and his career with the Bureau of Indian Affairs. His priorities as a family man were for Faye Jean, whom he married in 1944 while serving in the Army, to stay at home and raise their three children and then for the children to graduate from college. He was successful in both respects, with two achieving advanced degrees.

Bene loved his music, beginning early to play various instruments and continuing throughout his lifetime. At 17, securing his mother’s permission, he joined the 42nd Rainbow Division Infantry Band, which served in the Central Europe-Rhineland-Alsace-Ardennes Campaigns. After the war, he continued his interest in music, forming many dance bands and then playing music for the enjoyment of people from coast to coast.

His government career began with military service in World War II, followed by employment with the Veterans’ Administration and then rapid advancement to many positions within the Bureau of Indian Affairs. He retired, after 41 years of service with the BIA, in 1983, where he held the position of the administrative manager of the Puget Sound Agency.

He is survived by his current wife, Elise; brothers, Anthony and William; children, Bonnie Jean and Jimmie Lee (with their respective spouses, Rolf and Dena); daughter-in-law, Debbie; five grandchildren; and three  great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Faye Jean; son, John Robert; and five siblings.

Bene will be missed by everyone who ever met him.