George Ernest Benoit

January 12, 1920 - October 17, 2011

GEORGE BENOIT 1920 - 2011 South Hadley - George �Pete� Ernest Benoit, 91, passed away suddenly at his home on Monday, October 17, 2011. George was born in Holyoke on January 12, 1920 a son of the late Roderick and Antoinette (Hearel) Benoit. �Pete� was educated and raised in Holyoke where he graduated from Holyoke High School and played on the basketball team. George excelled in basketball and baseball as a young man. He broke many scoring records and received numerous accolades with the Stonewall �Stonies� and with the Highland A.C. and was instrumental in the Stonewall-Ward Six Battles. Pete was an avid fisherman and was a longtime handyman, especially at woodworking. He and his wife volunteered their talents at St. Paul�s Episcopal Church for many years. Most recently Pete was employed at James River Graphics as a supervisor where he retired after completing over 32 years of service. Pete is survived by his wife Virginia (Ray) Benoit who he married in 1969 and the couple celebrated over 42 years together. In addition to his devoted wife, Pete is also survived by his grandson, Brian Benoit and his great grandson Kevin Benoit both of Chicopee. He was also predeceased by a son Norman Benoit as well as six brothers and eight sisters. A funeral service will be held on Friday, October 28, 2011 at 2PM in St. Paul�s Episcopal Church, Appleton St., Holyoke. There are no calling hours. Please visit www.messierfuneralhome.com to share condolences, stories, pictures and view Pete�s personal life tribute webpage. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to St. Pauls Episcopal Church, 485 Appleton St., Holyoke, MA 01040