Benjamin M. Petroni

Benjamin M. Petroni, a beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, passed away on November 21, 2025, at the age of 93. Born on September 26, 1932, in Trenton, NJ, Benny lived a rich and fulfilling life, forever cherished by those who knew him.
A proud graduate of Trenton Central High School, Benny honorably served his country during the Korean War from 1953 to 1954, a period that showcased his bravery and commitment. Upon returning home, Benny built a distinguished career, initially working with Columbian Chemicals and Kramer Company before dedicating over two decades as a mail courier for the New Jersey Department of Labor, where he formed lasting memories and friendships, particularly with his dear buddy, Ernie Smith.
Benny's spirit was vibrant and contagious, evident in his love for the Jersey Shore-especially the lively boardwalk in Seaside Heights. You could often find him relishing a slice of Maruca's pizza, a succulent sausage sandwich at Midway, or enjoying a cold drink at Jack and Bill's. A social butterfly at heart, Benny found joy at Pete's Steakhouse during Happy Hour and made sure to gather with loved ones for family dinners every Friday night. Every morning, he delighted in breakfast at the Broad Street Diner, where the friendly staff treated him like family, ensuring he started his day with warmth and laughter. Benny enjoyed quiet evenings at home, often unwinding with a big bowl of ice cream while diving into his word search books or enjoying his classic shows such as Andy Griffith and beloved game shows. An ardent fan of sports, he never missed a chance to cheer on his beloved Boston Red Sox and New England Patriots. Benny will forever be remembered for his kind heart, lively spirit, and the love he so generously shared with everyone around him.
He is predeceased by his parents, Saulle and Palmina (Panfili) Petroni; his devoted wife of fifty years, Joan E. (Kemler) Petroni; and many treasured siblings. He leaves behind much love, including his sister, Ida Scardone; his daughters, Barbara Tsatsa, Debra Cantiello and her husband, Tom, Sandra Antonellis and her husband, Dan, and Patricia Petroni with her partner, Linda Wagner; and son Bruce Petroni. He will be deeply missed by his grandchildren and their spouses, Alicia and Domingo Castellano, Christian and Aileen Cantiello, Carla and Lenny Gradel, Adam and Annie Cantiello, Danielle Antonellis and her fiancé, Eric Grome, and Santo Antonellis; his great-grandchildren, Francesca, Elia, and Donato Castellano, Sophia, Gia, and Ava Gradel and Josephine and Tommy Cantiello, all of whom will carry his memory forward, along with a multitude of loving family members and friends.
Visitation for family and friends will be held on Monday, December 1, 2025, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Saul Colonial Home, 3795 Nottingham Way, Hamilton Square, NJ. The warmth of this gathering will serve as a testament to the profound impact Benny had on so many lives.
Private funeral services and interment will follow, as the family gathers to honor and celebrate the remarkable life of their beloved patriarch.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in his memory to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital by visiting https://www.stjude.org/.