Leonel Rino Bento

Leonel Rino Bento was born on July 11, 1941 in São Jorge, Portugal, to Joao Zeferino Bento and Maria Leadro DaSilva Rino and passed away peacefully on December 19, 2025, in Florida, where he spent the last fifteen years of his life surrounded by warmth, love, and family.
Leonel immigrated to the United States in the late 1960's with just twenty dollars in his pocket, driven by courage, determination, and an unshakable desire to build a better life for his family. Through relentless hard work and perseverance, he established a successful transportation business, creating opportunity, stability, and a lasting legacy. His life was a testament to sacrifice, resilience, and unwavering dedication to those he loved.
Leonel was the beloved husband of Maura DaCruz-Bento, with whom he shared more than twenty cherished years of love, companionship, and deep devotion. Their bond was one of true partnership and enduring affection.
He was a proud and devoted father to his two sons: John Bento and his wife, Renee, and their children Matthew, Michael, and Sofia; and Jorge Bento and his wife, Melissa, and their daughters Gabriella and Mia. Being a grandfather brought Leonel immense joy, and he treasured every moment spent with his grandchildren.
Leonel is also survived by his sister, Luci Rino Alves, and his brother, Antonio Rino Bento, along with many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his brother, Victor Bento.
A man of many passions and a larger-than-life personality, Leonel was hilarious, quick-witted, and endlessly entertaining. In his heyday, he was a phenomenal cook who took immense pride in feeding those around him. Nothing brought him more happiness than a long table filled with family and friends-overflowing with laughter, the best food anyone had ever tasted, and drinks poured generously. He was also an excellent dancer, never missing a chance to take the floor and bring joy to everyone around him. He loved making his own wine, gardening, and spending time outdoors, whether hunting, fishing, or chasing new adventures like taking flying lessons.
Known for his open door and generous heart, Leonel welcomed everyone as family, always leading with kindness, loyalty, and quiet strength. Some of his happiest moments were spent surrounded by loved ones, enjoying a cigar and a glass of Chivas while laughing with his grandchildren. He loved this country deeply and was forever grateful for the opportunities it gave him, while never losing his pride in his Portuguese roots and the traditions that shaped who he was.
To those who knew him, Leonel's legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the values he passed down, and the love he gave so freely. May his memory remain forever in our hearts, and may his spirit rest in peace.
Aqueles que amamos nunca partem verdadeiramente. Vivem para sempre nos nossos corações, nas nossas memórias e em cada momento partilhado. Descansa em paz, Leonel.
English:
"Those we love never truly leave. They live forever in our hearts, in our memories, and in every shared moment. Rest in peace, Leonel."
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Leonel's memory to Children's Cancer Fund or Tunnel to Towers Foundation