Tom Benigno answers a question during a February 2012 interview. Benigno died Wednesday, Oct. 10. Press file photo
Benigno’s son Chris Benigno posted a short statement on his father’s Facebook page on Thursday, Oct. 11, announcing the news.
“Last night, at 11:15, my best friend, my hero, my father fell asleep forever after battling cancer. He was an incredible man,” he wrote.
The Tracy Press learned of Benigno’s death Monday, Oct. 15, and is working to independently verify the information.
Calls to Benigno’s cellphone were not answered Monday.
Benigno recently ran an unsuccessful campaign for the office of San Joaquin County 5th District supervisor. He was eliminated from the race after finishing third during the June 5 primary.
In April, the then-75-year-old gave a spirited performance during a Tracy Press-sponsored supervisors political forum against opponents Bob Elliott and Rhodesia Ransom.
A lifetime Californian, Benigno farmed for decades in the San Joaquin Valley and had more than 55 years' experience in the retail and wholesale produce and grocery industry.
Benigno also ran for 5th District supervisor in 2008 but was defeated by Leroy Ornellas. He was unsuccessful in a 2006 campaign for the 19th Congressional District and a 2004 bid for the mayor’s seat of Tracy.
May your family find peace during these difficult times.
I think you are being too harsh. I met Tom and found he was always eager to debate. You can't fault the man for that.
Remember communicating is a two way process.
Although we disagreed on some areas, I found that he took the time to listen to what you said.
I also told him that I respected that he ran for office, regardless of who I voted for.
I think he just wanted to make his point heard. And I think he did.
And if you heard his story you might know why.
Tom was never hesitant about expressing his opinion no matter how others would perceive it.
And, yes he was a true gentleman!
My heart goes out to his wife and two children!
May he rest in peace!!
Tom had a lot of passion and we'll miss reading his blogs.
God Bless,
Manne Family
One of the true sh*t stirrer uppers here.
He will be missed by all us faceless anonymous creatures here on the TP web forums.
Condolences to his family.
Yes, quite a shocke too.
RIP Tom.
To his family, I am sorry for you loss.
Sincerely,
Dale Cose
I too would like to send my condolences and sympathy to his family and many friends.