Manuel J. 'Benny' Bento

Manuel Joe Bento, “Benny,” age 78, passed away Thursday, July 12, 2012, at Froedtert Lutheran Memorial Hospital, Wauwatosa. He was born in San Antonio, TX, on September 10, 1933, son of the late Q. Bento and Andrea (Nee: Bustos) Bento and had been a resident of Racine since 1960.

Benny served in the U.S. Marine Corps. He was a well known restaurateur who was credited with introducing fine Mexican Cuisine to Racine. Benny owned several restaurants including Taco Hut, Mi Casa, Los Amigos and Benny’s Food and Spirits. A great tennis player, he also managed the North Shore Club for many years. Benny will be remembered for his love of dancing, his ability to fix about anything, his kind nature and his great love for his family. He will be dearly missed.

Surviving are his children, Leilani Bento of Willow City, TX, Lisa (Clyde) Jacobs of Racine, Lance (Sarah) Bento of Oak Creek; grandchildren, Richard and Kirsten Kogutkiewicz, Camren, Selena and Elijah Bento; a great-granddaughter, Ella Kogutkiewicz; other relatives and many dear friends. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Helen Farias.

Funeral services will be held at the funeral home on Wednesday, July 18, 2012, at 11 a.m. with Deacon Russell Missureli officiating. Interment will follow at Southern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery. Relatives and friends may meet Tuesday at the funeral home from 5-7 p.m. and on Wednesday from 10:30 a.m. until time of service. In lieu of flowers, memorials to the family have been suggested.

MARESH-MEREDITH & ACKLAM FUNERAL HOME
803 Main St., Racine  (262) 634-7888