Arlene (Ventresca) Benoit

Arleen (Ventresca) Benoit, 75, of Worcester passed away peacefully in her sleep at home, Wednesday, July 26, 2017.  Arleen was born in Worcester, one of three daughters of the late Giacomo and Pauline (Quaglieri) Ventresca.  She graduated from Commerce High School, and has lived her whole life in the family home she grew up in.   Arleen worked over 20 years as a Unit Secretary for the University of Massachusetts Medical Center before retiring.  Arleen lived a life dedicated to her family; She is survived by her daughter Gia Benoit and her husband Ted Swetlik of Avon Colorado; her loving sister, Carol Ventresca Smith and her husband William of Worcester; several cousins, extended family members and friends.  Besides her parents, Arleen joins in heaven, her beloved son, Jack Benoit who passed away in 2007 and her sister, Dorothy Ventresca. She was a member of St Margaret Mary Church. A fantastic cook, Arleen would prepare outstanding meals using many of her mother’s recipes.  She was a true animal lover, making sure her friends, the neighborhood squirrels and birds were fed daily.   Arleen’s family and friends were the most important part of her life. She was a kind soul to everyone she met or encountered. Arleen will truly be missed by her family and dear friends whom she adored.   A period of calling hours will be held Tuesday, August 1st from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm in the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St.  In lieu of flowers memorial remembrances in her name can be made to St Jude Children’s Hospital, 501 St Jude Place, Memphis, Tenn. or the Worcester Animal Rescue League, 139 Holden St Worcester.