Frank Joseph Benenati ’51

Frank died March 21, 2022, in Norwich, N.Y.

He came to Princeton in 1947 after Army service in Korea and an illustrious career at Norwich High School, where he was class and Student Council president and a multi-sport star athlete that later led to his installation in the school’s Sports Hall of Fame and a long-term job as radio broadcaster for football and basketball games. At Princeton, he played freshman basketball and JV football, majored in chemistry, joined Tiger Inn, and roomed with Jake McCandless, Dick Valentzas, and Dick Simmons.

In 1952, he began a 37-year career in a variety of senior administrative positions, including personnel and labor relations manager, with Norwich Pharmaceutical Co.; and a 68-year marriage to his high school friend, Dorothy Oates. He also began his career in civic and volunteer work that included president of the YMCA, Rotary Club, and United Way; campaign chairman for United Way; and leadership roles in the local Elks, Boy Scouts, hospital, museum, historical society, and school tutor program. 

Frank was predeceased by his wife, Dorothy. He is survived by five children and numerous grandchildren.