Dante Bonetti, 100, of Fairfield, died peacefully September 15 at Connecticut Hospice in Branford. He was born May 5, 1917.spearmillerfuneralhome.com.

His children and their spouses, Nancy and Philip Hynes of Newtown and Kenneth and Elene Bonetti of Stratford, survive him. He is lovingly remembered by his grandchildren and their spouses, Jill and Vin Penry of Newtown, Philip and Kristin Hynes of Shelton, Dara and Dale Cates of Ansonia, and Robert and Jaime Bonetti of Stratford; and was a fun loving grandpa to his seven great-grandchildren. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

His beloved wife of 76 years, Patricia (Daino) Bonetti; his two brothers, Mario and Orlando Bonetti; and his two sisters, Olga Ballerini and Atilia Bouchard, predeceased him.

Mr Bonetti was a US Army veteran of World War II, having served in the South Pacific. He was also a charter member of the 192nd Field Artillery Battalion Association, where he enjoyed many annual reunions with his Army "buddies."

He was a self-employed excavating contractor for most of his life. Prior to his retirement, he worked several years for Mohican Valley Corporation of Fairfield.

Mr Bonetti was known as a very kind, gentle, and quiet person who never raised his voice or lost his temper. He was a wonderful role model for his children and grandchildren.

He and his devoted wife were inseparable and could be seen holding hands and sneaking a kiss, even after 75 years of marriage. They were a true love story.

Mr Bonetti's loved ones wish to specially thank Irina for her compassionate care of Mr Bonetti while he was at home and to Connecticut Hospice for providing him great comfort in his final days.

Friends and family are invited to attend Holy Family Church, 700 Old Stratfield Road, Fairfield, on Wednesday, September 27, at 10, for a Mass of Christian Burial. Interment will follow at Lawncroft Cemetery, Fairfield.

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