Sarah (Tena) Benoit (née Kaiser) - December 12, 1931 - March 27, 2023
It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that the family announces the passing of Sarah (Tena) Benoit on March 27th, 2023, at the age of 91 years. Tena is the beloved wife of Clarence Benoit of Dowling, Ontario. Predeceased by her parents, Sterling, and Eva Kaiser (née Bingley). She grew up a fisherman’s daughter in Port Bickerton, Guysborough County, Nova Scotia. She is predeceased by her sister, Jeanette Deyoung (Bernard), and brother Robert. Survived by her brothers, Wendell (Mary), Cyril (Carole) both of Nova Scotia, and sister Donna (Neil Friesen) of Ontario.
Tena married the love of her life, Clarence Benoit, on November 25th 1952, at St. Cross Church in Pomquet, Antigonish County, Nova Scotia. Together they had nine beautiful children, Roxanne Jameus (husband Danny; both predeceased), Bernice Forigo (Roger), Maurice, Michael, Cathy Stefanelli (Mike), Francine (Jon Flinders), Clarence, Angie Benoit Battiston (Dave Spicer), and Bobby (Chantal).
Cherished grandma to Courtney, Gino (Tanya), Roger Jr. (Christina), Ryan (Kallee), Jessica, Justin, Andrea, Joseph, Briton (Nicole), and Quinn. She will be deeply missed by her great-great grandchildren along with many nieces, nephews and friends from both Ontario and Nova Scotia.
Tena and Clarence's love was nothing short of extraordinary, as their undeniable spark continued to burn brightly for an incredible 70 years plus. They were happiest and most content when listening and playing country music together, as well as attending Bluegrass Jamborees. They also enjoyed being outdoors, camping, and of course, fishing. She and Clarence spent most of their time together fishing on local lakes, such as Vermillion Lake. When she wasn’t fishing, you would find her sitting in her rocking chair, watching her Toronto Blue Jays play, while
crocheting, knitting, and quilting for her children, grandchildren, and her Church. Tena worked hard her entire life. She was devoted to taking care of her family and serving her community by volunteering. She was famous for her one-liners and her quick wit. One of her favorite expressions was “GOD BLESS YOUR PEA PICKIN’ HEART”. One of the many expressions that have been customary among her children. Her absence will be deeply felt, but her memory will forever remain cherished.
The family would like to express their heartfelt thank you to the excellent staff, Doctors, Nurses and PSW’s, at Extendicare Falconbridge for the care and attention given to our mother. They were all outstanding in every way.
A funeral mass will be celebrated Saturday May 20th 2023 at 11am, held at St Etienne Martyr Paroisse, Dowling, ON. Cremation services provided by Simple Wishes of the North, Sudbury.