Edward “Ed” Benecchi, Jr., 82, of Auburn, passed away peacefully in the comfort of his home on Wednesday, March 6, 2024, with his loving family by his side.

He leaves his beloved wife of almost 53 years, Mary A. (McEwen) Benecchi; his sons, of whom he was so proud: Christopher Benecchi and wife Ashley, of Ogunquit, ME, Michael Benecchi and wife Shannon, of San Diego, CA, and Edward Benecchi, III and wife Amanda, of Terryville, CT; his cherished grandchildren: Jacob, Andrew, Elizabeth, Spencer, Vivian, Henry, Graham, and Lily; his sister, Edwina Benecchi-Lundquist and her significant other Anthony Postale, of Auburn; his brothers-in-law: Stephen McEwen and wife Pamela, and Peter McEwen and wife Tammy; his sister-in-law, Karen Cowern and husband Scott; along with many nieces and nephews, including Kim, T.J., Peter, Matthew, Nathan, and Meghan.

Ed was born and raised in Worcester, son of the late Edward Benecchi, Sr. and Elvira (Polini) Benecchi. He graduated from South High School, Class of 1959, then attended and graduated from Clark University, with a Bachelor’s degree in 1963. In September of 1963, during the Vietnam War, Ed enlisted into the U.S. Air Force and served his country proudly until his honorable discharge in 1969. In 1971, he married the love of his life, Mary McEwen, and the pair settled in Auburn in 1972 to begin their life together.

In 1969, Ed began a long career at Hanover Insurance Group, formerly Allmerica Financial, and retired after many years of dedicated service. It was while working at Hanover that he began running during lunch hours with friends, and it became a lifelong hobby.

Ed also had his own income-tax business, and was involved in the Auburn Lions Club. He enjoyed coaching and refereeing soccer, which he did for a number of years.

His family would like to thank the staff of Always Best Care Senior Services and JHC Hospice, for their caring, attentive nature and professionalism during this difficult time.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to JHC Hospice (Donate Online Here)

Services for Ed will be held privately for his family, and he will be interred alongside his parents at St. John’s Cemetery, Worcester. The Britton-Wallace Funeral Home is honored to be assisting with arrangements.