Richard (Rocky) Benevento

Richard Benevento Obituary

On Saturday the 14th of January, the Multnomah Athletic Club and the sport of handball lost one of its most treasured assets in the form of Richard (Rocky) Charles Benevento. He was 75.

Rocky died eight days after being diagnosed with leukemia. His family was by his side when he drifted off to be with the Lord. He was born to Lena and Rocky Benevento in Portland Oregon December 26, 1936.

Rocky graduated from Central Catholic HS in 1954 – the class of championship football teams. His renowned classmates from Central were Chick Withers, Vince Altenhofen, Hal Duffy, and John Vranizan. His sport was baseball playing in high school, with the Marine Corps in Okinawa, and at the University of Portland.

His work career spanned 50 years, with JK Gills, Peter’s Office Supply and Office Product Northwest.

Rocky played handball for the first time in 1957 on an Army base in Japan. He reportedly was sent to sick bay “because my hands were swollen up like a balloon”. His hands recovered and he became an avid handball player for over 60 years. He frequently said his biggest victory was winning the Pacific NW Regional’s Doubles with partner Ed Grossenbacher. Rocky was always known for enjoying life to its fullest.

During his decades as a club member, Rocky had the unique ability of making everyone he met feel as if they were the most important person on the planet. Whether it was the staff serving food items in Joes, the janitor pushing the broom or cleaning up in the Men’s Locker room, a member of the Board, or virtually any other MAC member, each knew that Rocky cared about them in equal terms. Rocky was the recipient of the Joe Loprinzi award in 2003.

Commonly referred to as the Ambassador of Handball, Rocky’s presence and his enthusiasm for the sport of handball will be missed. It is considered that the MAC was Rocky’s second home, and if so, then the Handball courts were his bedroom and the fraternity of handballer’s were all his extended family. Rocky’s passing does present to his handball community the challenge of replacing his welcoming smile, encouraging voice and tireless work for everyone’s betterment.

There’s no doubt in his fellow handballer’s minds that Rocky is still perfecting his ‘Dominator ‘ serve, and continuing to hit the low left-handed punch shot for a winner – even in the big handball court in the heavens.

Facts Born: December 26, 1936
Place of Birth: Portland, OR USA
Death: January 14, 2012
Place of Death: Portland, OR USA
Hobbies: Handball
Organizations: Multnomah Athletic Club

Survived By Susie, Spouse
Barbara Ann, Daughter
Richard Paul , Son
Julie Renee , Daughter
Everett Eisner , Grandchild
Kellen Eisner , Grandchild
Gabriella Benevento, Grandchild
Colton Benevento, Grandchild

Memorial Donations Memorial donations can be made to:
Alten Handball Foundation Inc., 1248 SW Cardinell Way, Portland, OR 97201

Services

You can still show your support by sending flowers directly to the family, or by planting a memorial tree in the memory of Richard (Rocky) Benevento

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7 replies on “Richard (Rocky) Benevento”

Such a huge loss to Portland. Rocky was my dads best friend. Rocky has been there through all the good times and the bad. Everywhere Rocky went someone knew him. He was always helping others before helping himself. HIs humor was infectious. Such a good father, friend and husband. You will be missed Rocky. Thank you for being YOU! Allison

“Rocky” was the most genuinely warm and friendly man I’ve ever known. I was so lucky to grow-up with him and his wonderful family. He was always excited to see you, and was the life of every party, and gathering.

I have so many great memories of the fun times we shared together with our families…(Christmas caroling, Beaver baseball games, boating, neighborhood parties, backyard barbecues, watching Blazer games and Sylvester Stallone movies…etc.)

I knew him virtually my entire life, and feel very lucky to have experienced so many awesome moments together. He was a one-of-a-kind genuine personality, and he seemed to know everyone in town.

“Rocky” will surely be missed and always revered by me and my family.

Rocky was one of the nicest guys I’ve ever met in the handball family. He was always up beat and friendly. I looked forward to seeing Rocky when headed to a tournament at the MAC. I will miss him.

I met Rocky years ago and have nothing but fond memories. Every encounter was a pleasure.

One time Ed Grossenbacher and Rocky came to a USHA BOD meeting to pitch the MAC for the 2004 Nationals. While Ed spoke Rocky stood next to him, smiling, arms crossed, fidgeting, rocking back and forth without saying a word. We were not sure what Rocky’s role was at the presentation or would be at the nationals but knowing Rocky would be there as ambassador helped persuade us. He will be missed.

As a prior member of the Olympic Club in SF, we played a home and home series for years against the Multnomah Club.
No matter how nice a person is off the court, some are not on the court.
Rocky was someone we looked forward to meet and compete against each year. His disposition was contagious and never changed on or off the court.
His tours of the Porland area were also treasured. He will be missed.

Tom

The overflow crowd at the funeral Jan. 19 was a tribute to Dick’s friendship and loyalty throughout his lifetime. I have very fond memories of Dick and I playing handball together at the Jewish Community Center in the 60’s and 70’s. We enjoyed playing as partners and in singles against each other. Although our paths did not cross very often the last several years, whenever we saw each other we enjoyed chatting and comparing notes on kids and grandkids. My sincerest condolences to all of the family. Best regards, Garry Kahn

I’m sorry to learn of his abrupt passing. A nicer guy you couldn’t find. I’m glad I could have a last game with him a couple years ago….we never know. My heartfelt sympathy for all who mourn his passing.