Janet D. Benz

Janet Lee (Dunning) Benz, 78, of Syracuse, passed away at St. Joseph’s Hospital on January 23, 2025, after a long battle with Alzheimer’s Disease.

Janet was born on February 15, 1946, in Norfolk, VA to John and Bess Dunning.  After high school, Janet attended Old Dominion University and graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in History.  After graduating, Janet met her husband Robert, from East Syracuse, while he was working in Virginia for the Job Corps.  Robert and Janet were married on March 29, 1970, in Norfolk, VA.  Janet made the move up north with Robert to begin their life together in the Syracuse area.  Janet was a devoted wife and very proud mother of their two children.

After their children were grown, Janet obtained her Master’s degree in Social Work from Syracuse University.  Janet excelled in her studies and was truly a life-long learner.  Janet worked for St. Joseph’s Hospital Home Health Care as a Social Worker.  Janet worked tirelessly for disadvantaged individuals in the community.  Janet also volunteered for several years at Vera House.

Janet had a spirited personality and enjoyed; spending time with her grandchildren, being outside tending to her flowers, camping with friends and family, eating sweet treats that included chocolate, attending family reunions in Cacapon, West Virginia, taking care of her cats, reading and doing puzzles.

Janet shared a great appreciation for theater and music with her daughter.  They attended a variety of theater productions and concerts together. 

Janet was a very spiritual person and enjoyed studying different religious beliefs and practices as a way of deepening her own faith.  Janet taught a weekly study of A Course in Miracles in her home for years.

Janet is survived by her husband of 55 years, Robert Jr. and their two children, Robert III (Bridget) Benz of Seneca Falls, NY and Melissa Benz of Syracuse, three grandchildren, Madison, Macy and Conor Benz, a sister, Nancy Craft of Virginia Beach, VA, brothers-in-law, Michael DelVecchio of San Diego, CA and Howard LaRose of Palm Bay, FL, a nephew, Brian (Melody) LaRose of TN and a niece, Sherri (Jon) Chiglo of MN. 

Janet was predeceased by her parents, sister, Susie LaRose and her sister-in-law, Rita DelVecchio.

There will be no calling hours.  A funeral mass for Janet will be held at St. Augustine’s Church in Baldwinsville on February 8, 2025 at 11am.  The family will receive friends, prior to the service, at the church, from 10:30 am to 11am.  Contributions in Janet’s memory can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, Central New York Chapter 5015 Campuswood Drive Suite 102 East Syracuse, NY 13057.

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