Obituary of Benito 'Benny' Gaetan, Scotchtown

Benito “Benny” Gaetan, 88, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, August 17, 2024 in the loving arms of his wife of 65 years. Born on February 23,1936 in New Waterford, NS, he was the beloved son of Freddy and Conda (Gatto) Gaetan.

Benny was a devoted husband to Julie; loving father to Connie (Bill) Gallant, Lori (John) Reid, and special nephew, Michael (Elaine) Gaetan, who was more like a son.  

Benny was blessed with many grandchildren; Tyler, Mark, Julie Ann, John Steven, Avery, Gavin, and Grady; along with four great-grandchildren, Denver, Kane, Beckett, and Emerson. 

Benny was a dear brother to Guido (Marion), Rosie Casagrande, Gloria Peach, Johnny (Cathy), and Michael; in-laws, John Burke and Mary Gaetan.

He was predeceased by siblings, Richie, Veronica (aka Snookie), Eva; sister-in-law, Margarette, Edith; brothers-in-law, Ermano and Doug. 

Benny was a coal miner for 40 years. He never shied away from a hard days work. No one could “brush” like dad; many a pan shovel suffered its demise in Benny's hands. He was a local mining legend. Benny was also known for his sharp wit, generous spirit, and supreme fly-tying skills; heaven for Dad was on the Margaree River with Julie by his side. They shared many adventures together with family in the big interval. He will be forever missed.

Cremation has taken place. Visitation will be held on Friday, August 23, 2024 from noon until the time of the service at 1 p.m. all in V.J. McGillivray Funeral Home Chapel, 380 Smith Street, New Waterford. Father Jim Oliver officiating. A reception will be held in the funeral home with burial to follow in Mount Carmel Cemetery. Donations in his memory may be made to the I.W.K., Halifax. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at: www.vjmcgillivray.ca.