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Alberto Anselmo Benzi
1929 - 2013
Alberto Anselmo Benzi
1929 - 2013
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Alberto Benzi Obituary
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Aja
January 20, 2023
I was just telling my students the other day that my Zio would get frustrated at ill behaved youth and call them spoiled rats instead of brats. They thought that was hilarious, and said they like his way of saying it better. Miss you Zio!
Aja Gabrielle Booker
January 20, 2022
I miss you Zio. I wish you could have met Hendrix and seen Lennox get bigger. They would have loved you and playing the quarter game. I know you are with us still. Look after Zia. I know she misses you terribly.
Ralph & Patricia Martinez
June 22, 2020
Yesterday we googled Alberto Benzi to find out how he was, it saddened us to hear of his passing. As a priest, he baptized me at 18 yrs old & married Ralph & I in October 1965. He came to dinner for our first Christmas as a couple. Alberto helped me with the salad, cutting up the tomatoes, because he didnt like the seeds in the tomatoes. We attended the church he said mass at in San Leandro, CA. In May 1967 we were very fortunate to spend two days with him & his Father traveling from Amsterdam to Koln to Mainz on the Rhein River. Alberto was on his way back to the Vatican to get new orders for where he would serve next. To stay in contact we sent Christmas cards every year. In 1976 we spent an afternoon with him in San Diego, we were there visiting our family. That was the last time we saw him, although the Christmas cards were still sent. We have always had him in our hearts & think of him. We are happy to hear of his life through all the memories on this page. Attached is our wedding picture with him. Also, picture of Alberto & his Father & Ralph is the background on the Rhein River.
Aja Booker
January 21, 2020
Zio, I made pasta last night, and every time I do, I think of you. I remember you showing me how italians eat pasta with a spoon and fork and you insist I try it. I also remember you telling me, multiple times, how simple it is to have a healthy diet. You usually described mediterranean cuisine...you weren't biased or anything! I miss you always and so does Zia. Thank you for all you did for us. I love you!!
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Jocelyn Saucedo
February 24, 2014
I met Professor Benzi almost 3 years ago when I was a student, just through walking in the Village, and I often ran into him at coffee shops or on the street. He would always tell me he knew I was intelligent because of the wrinkles on my forehead, and that I should be a professor. I feel very lucky to have met such a lovely figure, who was such a positive influence on my studies, and whose wisdom was always simple and full of cheer.
Baby Ledesma Barrera
February 15, 2014
Professor Alberto Benzi was an inspiring man. He always knew how to put a smile on my face. We shared several memories in such a short time. Enjoying music, dancing, and laughing. But most memorable would be hearing him calling me "Bella Baby"!! I still get tears in my eyes when I think of it. Professor Benzi will always be in my heart!!
Carmeline Scudero
February 12, 2014
I was very fortunate to have participated in Alberto's guided tours to Italy and saw the magnificent art and architecture I had learned about in his classes. Because of him, my life changed from mundane to fantastic. Thank you Alberto for being my friend. I believe that life after death means that we live in the hearts and minds of those we leave behind. Alberto will be with us for many, many years.
Aja Booker
February 7, 2014
I am thinking of you now and always Zio!!
Aja Booker
February 7, 2014
I am thinking of you now and always Zio.
Cherrie Domingo
February 7, 2014
In 4months working for prof. Alberto Benzi was full of memories that will never be forgotten. He is very sweet, kind hearted, loving and a happy person. He taught me a lot even just in a small things. He love to tell some stories, story that make you smile. It's my honor to met prof Benzi and my pleasure to be his care-friend. Thank you so much for everything professor!
Danyle Parks
February 6, 2014
I extend my deepest condolences to my dear friend Rhonda and her entire family. Alberto taught me so much and was so generous to me, unfortunately not fully realized by myself until years later if then. What Alberto shared was of infinite value to those who were lucky enough to have known him. I remember being in conversation with Alberto; Alberto would look quietly into your eyes as you spoke; giving you the feeling he was listening- not only to you but your soul, your journey. Then he spoke and you realized he was. For a man so accomplished it was his humanity, compassion, understanding and generosity that would leave the mark. I'm eternally in your debt, Alberto. You will be missed. Peace and Love Always, Dan Parks
Tierney Hermann
February 4, 2014
Dear Aunt Rhonda, I'm very sorry about Zio's death. He was very nice to Shealyn & me. I remember him with a big smile just like in all the photos of him. I hope we see you in Modesto soon. Love - Tierney
Alberto & our tour group at dinner in Pisa ~ '89
Lori Brunswick
February 3, 2014
Alberto & Rhonda in Firenze, Italy ~ '89
Lori Brunswick
February 3, 2014
Alberto & Rhonda in Lugano, Switzerland ~ '89
Lori Brunswick
February 3, 2014
Krista Straight
February 3, 2014
Professor Benzi taught me a lot during the short time I knew him as one of his caretakers at the White Sands Atrium. He taught me to always hold my head high, to stand with confidence, and to be my best. He was very caring and such a joy to be around! Professor Benzi will be missed, but will always hold a place in my heart! Thank you so much for the honor to have been a part of your life!
Shealyn Hermann
February 3, 2014
Dear Aunt Rhonda, Zio always seemed very happy to me. As a child, it was hard for me to understand some of what he said to me because of his accent. But he always laughed when he would tell a story. That's what I remember most about him. I'm sorry he wasn't able to move to Modesto, so we could spend more time with him. Love, Shealyn
Stephanie Marquez
February 1, 2014
My name is Stephanie Marquez. And I met Mr. Benzi when I first started working at Sunrise. Every time I walked in for work there he was with a huge smile! I remember him talking to me for hours in Italian. .although I never really understood what he was saying, I would just go along with it smile..there was never a dull moment with him..he was a true blessing and i'm so great full to have met such a wonder man. And so I say ciao profesor!! You will be missed and my you rest in peace..
Randy Jackson
January 31, 2014
Hello, my name is Randy Jackson. I first met Alberto when he arrived at Sunrise, he immediately became my friend. Wherever I went throughout Sunrise, he was by my side. He is an amazing person and always a joy to be around. Whether we were out walking or sitting around listening to our custom Italian playlist on my iPod, I enjoyed his company and loved the time I spent with him. I am truly grateful I was able to know him and learn from Rhonda about his past. Over time Alberto and Rhonda both felt like family and I really am happy I was able to be friends to the both of them. Alberto, you will always be in my memory and in my heart.
Janet & Ken Martin
January 29, 2014
My husband and I both had the pleasure of attending Dr. Benzi's Philosophy class years ago. I also attended his Logic/Critical Thinking class. He was a favorite professor to both of us. His passion and enthusiasm in the classroom was infectious and engaged all of his students. The lessons we learned really influenced our lives and the way we see the world. We wonder if he knew how he impacted the lives of his students. We cannot tell you how many times we have spoken of him over the years. He was a dear, sweet gentleman and we feel grateful and blessed to have known him. Our sincere condolences and prayers for his family that God will comfort them now and always.
kahmille booker
January 28, 2014
my name is Kahmille Booker and Alberto Benzi is my Zio. I remember when he would give me life lesson lecturers at the age of five, and how important it is to get your education or learn how to do things on your own. Zio was always self sufficient and always walked around as much as he can. He would always play with me and never yell at me and my sister. Thank you Zio for everything that you have done for me . RiP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
January 28, 2014
Hello my name is aalinah booker, alberto benzi was my uncle.So, i am going to share some memories about him and how great of a person he was.He was a very great person he always wanted to play with use so when we play with him at his house alberto,kahmille,and l played a quarter game.He would hide the quarter behind his back and we would have to guess what hand the quarter was in,if you guessed the right hand you get to keep the quarter.Another one of my memories that i am going to share is when we went to Disneyland and he would grab my arm and pat it and start walking with me.My last memory is when we would walk for a long time and we would offer him a scooter but he would not take it. And so this is all i am going to say. And thank you for writing about alberto.
From,aalinah
At White Sands 2013
Rhonda Benzi Brunswick
January 28, 2014
Walking the streets of La Jolla Village 2013
Rhonda Benzi Brunswick
January 28, 2014
In La Jolla 2013
Rhonda Benzi Brunswick
January 28, 2014
With Rhonda on a cruise of Greece and Turkey 1994
Rhonda Benzi Brunswick
January 28, 2014
Father Benzi celebrating a Baptism 1967
Rhonda Benzi Brunswick
January 28, 2014
Father Benzi on vacation late 1950's
Rhonda Benzi Brunswick
January 28, 2014
Father Benzi preaching Mass 1968
Rhonda Benzi Brunswick
January 28, 2014
Father Benzi in Oakland
Rhonda Benzi Brunswick
January 28, 2014
Father Benzi in Italy
Rhonda Benzi Brunswick
January 28, 2014
Alberto as a young priest on vacation
Rhonda Benzi Brunswick
January 28, 2014
January 28, 2014
We first met Alberto in 1994, as members of one of his cultural tours to Italy. With him as a leader, our introduction to this fascinating country was incredible, so much so that we participated in several more of his tours, always learning something new and having truly rich experiences. Alberto knew Italy, and its culture and history, as few others. His warm personality and gentle manner made the travels especially enjoyable. We became very good friends, and because Alberto and Rhonda and we all lived in La Jolla, we got together frequently and had untold numbers of rewarding discussions about philosophies, art, religion, politics, and whatever else came to mind, all while having a fun time. We also had the enjoyment of hosting the wedding ceremony for Alberto and Rhonda in our garden, put together and attended by their many friends and family members. We were very sad to learn that Alberto passed away so suddenly. He had a special place in our hearts, and we will miss him sorely.
Edvard and Barbara Hemmingsen
La Jolla, California
Gary Jacobs
January 28, 2014
Rhonda,I'm very sorry for the loss of Alberto, I'm glad you two had the time together that you did.
Lori Brunswick
January 27, 2014
I feel extremely privileged to have known Alberto for the last 30+ years and to call him my brother-in-law. I can still conjure up his voice and ever-present smile. Never at a loss for words, his warm greetings and generous nature will truly be missed. In 1989, I had the pleasure to going on my first trip to Italy on one of Alberto's tours. He made the paintings & sculptures come alive with his vast knowledge of Art History and sparked a lifelong love of Italian culture. He and Rhonda were like teenagers together, and when in his company, I never saw her happier and more at peace. Thank you for making her happy; you were the love of her life. Rest in peace Alberto.
Carole Brunswick
January 27, 2014
I loved my son-in-law, he was a wonderful, humorous, sweet, generous man, loved by our entire family. He will be greatly missed.
Cherise and David Day
January 27, 2014
Alberto was the light of my sisters life and a rock for our family. My brother-in-law was the kindest, most generous man I've ever known. He could carry your imagination away with his amazing stories and charming accent. I'll miss him more than words can describe and I'm so honored to have been a part of his life and he a part of mine.
Lisa Brunswick
January 27, 2014
I first met Alberto in the mid 1980s and liked him immediately. He was the most charismatic, positive, and engaging human being I have ever met, past or present. His smile and laughter were infectious. He was an intellect extraordaire and his philosophy of life was one of positivity,love,and deep humanity. I never heard him utter a negative word towards anyone in all of the years I knew him. Alberto was an avid conversationalist who could discuss any number of subjects and, after a conversation with Alberto, you felt enriched with knowledge and food-for-thought. I was blessed to be able to go on one of Alberto's tours of Italy. He was the best of all possible tour guides, and he provided a trip to Italy that one would cherish for a lifetime. My heart goes out to my sister Rhonda. He was the love of her life and I know she cherished every moment she had with him. Ciao, Alberto. May your soul rest in peace.
Ron Aguirre
January 27, 2014
" vaggio piacevole il mio amico tipo "
Mike Green
January 27, 2014
Alberto,
I sincerely wish we had more time to get to know each other. You glowed with life and happiness every time I saw you, and I know you will be deeply missed. May your kind and generous soul rest in peace.
Aja Booker
January 27, 2014
Alberto was my Zio. I will never forget him telling me I should become a teacher. I thought he was crazy. I told him I would not be any good, and I should be a lawyer like Zia. He threw his hands in the air and exclaimed, "Bahh! Principessina you are out of your mind!!" I fought him on this for another year or so, before realizing he was right. I live my life, everyday, fulfilled and happy because I listened to him. Thank you Zio for seeing the potential in me before I ever knew it was there. You are forever in my heart. I love you always, and look forward to seeing you on the other side!!! RIP
Terry Peck
January 26, 2014
Professor Benzi was my Italian teacher for many semesters at Grossmont College in the 70's. He touched me greatly with his zest for life and his love of learning. I never forgot how he said sleeping was a waste of time you were missing out on life. Everyone should be so lucky to cross paths with someone like him sometime in their life.
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