Obituary of Edward Francis Bento

Edward Francis Bento, 84, of Ashtabula passed away peacefully surrounded by family on March 20, 2018 at Austinburg Nursing Home and Rehabilitation Center. He was born June 1, 1933 in Ashtabula, Ohio the son of Francis J. Bento and Marguerite (O'Brien) Bento-Fails, and had remained a lifelong area resident. Ed attended St. Joseph Elementary School and graduated from Ashtabula High School Class of 1952. After graduating from high school, he was invited to spring training with the former Milwaukee Braves. He served his country in the U.S. Army from 1953 until 1955. After he was honorably discharged from the military, he attended Kent State University, where he received his Bachelor of Science degree in Education in 1961. While at KSU he helped coach the pitchers and catchers. After graduation from Kent State he became a teacher for Ashtabula Area City Schools from 1961 to 1971 and from 1976 until he retired in 1995. Ed was a Phys Ed, History and OWA teacher while at AACS and also coached Baseball, Basketball and Football, during his career. Mr. Bento was elected the Ashtabula City Manager in 1971 and 1973, serving until 1976. Ed also enjoyed umpiring and refereeing baseball and basketball games. Ed was an active member of Our Lady of Peace Parish-Mother of Sorrows, where he served as lay commentator for many years. He was a member of the BPO Elks Lodge #208, American Legion Post #103 and a lifetime member of the East Ashtabula Club. He is survived by his wife of 59 years, the former Jeanne M. Zalimeni, whom he married on August 30, 1958 at Mother of Sorrows; sons, Francis J. Bento of Ashtabula and Michael (Sarah) Bento of Toledo; daughter, Mary M. Bento; and granddaughers, Mary Catherine and Anne Marie Bento. He is also survived by his brother, Donald J. (Anna) Bento; sister-in-laws, Jennifer (Mark) Dibley, Joyce Burdno and Janice Zalimeni; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and his step-father, Charles Fails. Calling hours will be held at Mt. Carmel Catholic Church, 1200 E. 21st St., Ashtabula, Saturday, March 24, 2018 from 12:00 NOON until time of Mass of Christian Burial at 1:30 with Rev. Fr. Raymond Thomas, presiding. Inurnment of ashes will be held privately at St. Joseph Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider contributions to BirthCare, Inc. of Ashtabula County, PO BOX 1375, Ashtabula, Ohio, 44005, in memory of Edward. The family wishes to extend a special thank you for the care they provided Edward to ACMC ICU and 4th Floor Staff, the Austinburg Nursing Home, and especially to Jennifer Dibley and Steve "Buddy" Candela. Zaback-Williams- Ducro Funeral Home, 500 W. Prospect Rd., Ashtabula is handling arrangements. Online obituary and condolences at www.ducro.com