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Johnson-Kennedy Funeral Home, Inc. - Canandaigua

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Canandaigua, New York

Benjamin McCheyne Obituary

CANANDAIGUA– Benjamin D. McCheyne, age 72, longtime resident of Canandaigua, passed away peacefully on March 23, 2024, at Light Hill in Canandaigua.

Benny is survived by his wife, Nancy (Brown) McCheyne who he was devoted to; his four McCheyne siblings, Ann Marie, Mark, Mary, and Roberta; brother-in-law, Thomas Brown; nephew, Joe Caito; and four nieces; Alexis Caito, Olivia McCheyne, Arika Lynn, and Andrea Overslaugh.

He was predeceased by his parents Esther (Lahr) and Robert McCheyne.

Benny was a trained farrier, calling himself a horseshoer. In 1975, he started his business after graduating from the Midwest Farrier School in Zenia, Ohio. Driving and racing harness horses were also his passions in this era. Ben's many clients of decades were also his friends. He was shoeing horses up to 5 weeks before his cancer diagnosis in early January.

When told he was called a Horse Whisperer, Benny's response was that he'd been called many things, some not that good. He will be missed for his way with horses, his sense of humor, and just being the good person he was.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Light Hill, 5160 Parrish Street Ext., Canandaigua, NY 14424. Interment will be in White Haven Memorial Park. A memorial gathering for friends and family will be set in the future. Condolences may be offered at www.johnsonkennedy.com.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Finger Lakes Times from Apr. 1 to Apr. 2, 2024.

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Sal Rinaldo

April 5, 2024

Benny helped me with my horses back in the late 60's. Always eager to help and an excellent horseman and friend at that young age. I remember his first drive in a race and when he got his license to drive in races. Sorry to hear of his passing.

Kathie Stevens

April 5, 2024

Benny was such a great man, he started shoeing my horse when he first started out. Always had some jokes and horse stories - nearly 49 years of them. My son adored him. So very very sorry.

FRANKIE LONG

April 3, 2024

To THE McCHEYNE FAMILY, TOM AND I WERE SADDENED OF BENNYS' PASSING. HE WAS A VERY KIND MAN. MY CHRISTABOB LOVED HIM. TOM AND FRANKIE LONG

Paul Garling

April 2, 2024

Ben was a good guy always helping family and friends.

Richard McGuigan

April 2, 2024

We are saddened to learn of Benny's death. We have known him for over 40years of service for our horses in the past. Benny was always more than a blacksmith.. He was our good friend. We will always remember him for his kindness and humor. Most sincere, Sue and Dick McGuigan

Paul Garling

April 2, 2024

I always enjoyed seeing Ben and knowing what a dedicated friend he was to many.

Lisa Kuras

April 2, 2024

Benny cared for our horses for nearly 40 years. Benny, your wit, wisdom, kindness, selflessness and calm nature were of a level that few possess. It is unimaginable that you are no longer here to share all that you were to so many. I hope there is a harness horse waiting for you in heaven. Miss you already.

AJ Copp

April 1, 2024

My condolences for your loss Roberta -Amos

Laurie Adams

April 1, 2024

I already miss Benny. He was wonderful to step in and take over caring for my horses´ hooves a few years ago when my farrier had to step away. He was always kind and patient with them. I´ll miss our barn chats as he was working. You´re a good man, Benny. You will be greatly missed. My thoughts and prayers go out to your family.

Vanessa Waters

April 1, 2024

Benny was a Sage. He brought news of the others who valued his expertise with horses. His understanding of strong trotting horses guided my success. Thank you Benny.

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Funeral services provided by:

Johnson-Kennedy Funeral Home, Inc. - Canandaigua

47 N. Main St., Canandaigua, NY 14424

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