MacCoubrey Funeral Home
30 King St. E., Cobourg
MacCoubrey Funeral Home
30 King St. E., Cobourg
Castleton Cemetery
Castleton
This obituary is protected by copyright by MacCoubrey Funeral Home Limited. Proudly serving Northumberland County in the province of Ontario, Canada. All rights reserved.
"It is more blessed to give than to receive." Acts 20:35
Pierre Joseph Benedetti passed away suddenly at his home in the early morning of June 5, 2025. Beloved son of the late Mario and Iolanda Benedetti, adored brother of the late Mario Benedetti. Pierre was the treasured husband of Erin (nee Atkinson). Adored uncle to Travis, Tyson Stevens and Jake, Josh & Stevie Atkinson. Their energy and presence brought Pierre relentless happiness. Will be dearly missed by Angelo Torrieri and his family, Nanny (Elinore Saddler) - Uncle Emilio Cantalini, his Benedetti and Lamonaca relatives, included the many extended cousins and their families from those last names. All of Erin’s Atkinson, McMillian and Dejong family members, The vast team of current and former Benedetti employees - who were always greatly appreciated. Pierre understood the importance of good people, everyone holding a piece of the puzzle creating Benedetti Farms to what it is today. Pierre was admired, respected and will be missed by countless neighbours and friends from so many different facets of farming. Pierre had two favourite comments “Everyone is my neighbour” and “Almost everyone has worked for me at one point or another” - Everyone always felt appreciated as Pierre loved people.
Born in Avignon, France, July 19, 1950. His Italian family's Canadian story began in 1954, with several moves leading them to their “Home Farm” growing cucumbers in Castleton, Ontario. Pierre loved his parents and brother with his entire heart. He would share that every day was a blessing and filled with joy and encouraged others to live the same. Pierre was a peace maker and was incredibly talented in doing so. Pierre, known as a brilliant farmer, strived to have the best crops, best equipment, integrating the newest technology, best attitude and worked, some would say, with ridiculous, endless vigor. Pierre had an infectious smile and contagious laugh. Many found themselves in conversation with Pierre and were always very thankful for his, “Whatcha do….” words of direction and/or encouragement. Pierre loved going on crop tours and many a friend would accompany/drive him on these adventures. It wasn’t until he was 73 that Pierre realized that he LOVED to travel. Specifically, in his Sprinter camper van with Erin. Having driven from Castleton to Tofino, BC - Dawson City, Yukon, Tuktoyaktuk, NWT- Hilton Head SC, Miami FL - He was simply filled with joy, sitting “shotgun” and taking in the abundance and beauty of the world in which we live.
Pierre’s generosity knew no bounds. Everyone felt or received this in a different manner. Simply his kind, always happy demeanor - equipment would break down - his response would be one of “better you than me”, “it doesn’t matter”, “that’s why we buy new, it's under warranty”. He would always smile and move on to another task. Pierre will be known forever as a true farmer - having never retired.
Pierre had a special connection with God. He shared that he felt truly blessed his entire life. Raised Catholic, he spent the last few years attending Glad Tidings Pentecostal Church in Campbellford ON with his wife Erin. Those who knew Pierre have absolutely no doubt that his soul is at the right hand of our Father, at the very same table as his beloved Mother, cherished Father and incredibly missed brother. All of them are together again.
Visitation will be held at MacCoubrey Funeral Home, 30 King Street East, Cobourg, on Friday June 13th, 2025 from 4:00-9:00pm and on Saturday June 14th, 2025 from 12-5:00pm.
Interment will take place at the Castleton Cemetery, Saturday June 21st, 2025 at 12:30pm as all of the Benedetti Farm crops will be in the soil by this date, very important to Pierre - crops in and off where always priority.
A Celebration of life will be held on Saturday July 19th 2025 from noon until evening. (Yes this would have been his 75 birthday) We are going to Celebrate the life he lived and the legacy that he has created. Come and join us at the Home Farm, 598 Morganston Road, Castleton ON. All equipment will be on display. It will be amazing.
Friends, neighbours, extended family - EVERYONE is asked to take a moment and put a story or “happening” down on paper, email or on this message board - something that can be shared and will create a memory of this amazing family. Please bring with or email it to info@benedettifarms.net. A memory wall of stories will be created on our Company website which is currently under construction. (hand written, typed, whatever inspires you, but please be inspired to share - absolutely nothing is to little or big. ALL STORIES WANTED).
Tickets will be handed out at the visitation and the interment - you are asked to retain them and bring them to the Celebration of Life as we have prepared a special activity for those in attendance.
If desired, memorial donations are asked to be made to the Campbellford Memorial Hospital Foundation (Pierre’s last little “schtint” (late 2024) in the current hospital in Campbellford found him in room 10 - a room known for having NO HEAT - Our community can use a new facility.)
The family would like to give a heartfelt thank you and please know you are so greatly appreciated to the following people. Without your care we would not have had the time with Pierre that we have these past 2 years. This includes and is not limited to:
Dr. McNeil of Colborne (Pierre's family Doctor for many years) Dr. C.H Cheung and all of her amazing office staff, Dr. M. Hartleib and Dr. G. Hanson, all of Peterborough, the many nurses who loved on him at The Northumberland Hills Hospital, Campbellford Memorial Hospital and the Peterborough Regional Health Centre during his past stays at these facilities. We are also very thankful for our diligent St. Elizabeth helpers, to Caitlyn with Step Above Footcare, and last but absolutely not least, all staff at Hear Right Canada of Campbellford-THANK YOU, without your devices, we may have all gone just a little batty. We are so grateful to all of you for the extended time you created for us to have with Pierre. We would also like to thank the first responders and volunteers who tried with all their might, skill and compassion to intervene Gods plan on June 5th 2025 We are so grateful for your generosity of skill and noticeable love of people (strangers) Thank you.
I am very sad to hear that my dear cousin Pierre has passed away. On the Benedetti side, my father, Emilio Cantalini, is Pierre's last living uncle, and I am one of Pierre's many cousins. Growing up I remember going to the farm a lot during the summer holidays for a week or two at a time with our other cousin Tony. We used to help my uncle Mario and cousins Pierre and Mario with the farm work, and my aunt Iolanda would cook and take care of us. We used to play in the hay, drive the tractors, and chase the cows. Pierre was a fantastic guy and a great older cousin. I learned a lot from him, and we all had such a great time together, hanging out and joking around! Thanks for the memories cousin! Love, Zio Emilio, cousin Tito, Luba and Family.
I am so sad to hear of my dear cousin Pierre's passing. He was the oldest of the Benedetti cousins here in Canada, and I am the youngest, with nine other cousins in between. I remember when I was young, my family and I would go on a road trip from Toronto to the farm almost every summer. My uncle Mario and my father Luigi used to reminisce about their younger days in Italy, and after a few drinks, would start singing the songs of their youth, while my aunt Iolanda and my mother Antonia would prepare our meals and have endless conversations. There was a lot of laughter when those four got together, and the stories from "back in Italy" were never-ending! They had a really strong bond! At the time, I was just a kid, so if my cousins Pierre and Mario were out working, I was bored, I mean, they only had two channels and no cable, LOL, and I could barely see the closest house! A far cry from city life! So I would often go and hang out with the cows or climb the hay stacks in the barn, and when Pierre and Mario came home, they would take me out and teach me how to drive the tractors, which was SO much fun! My favourite line from Pierre every time I saw him was "Hey Tina, how's things?". We went on so many long drives in the area, sat around to eat, tell jokes, and laugh our heads off! Great times! Thank you, Zio, Zia, Pierre and Mario for all those memories! Pierre and his family were always such hard-working, warm and loving people. This is the end of an era, and I am blessed to have them as part of my family. Rest in peace, cousin! I will miss your huge smile and warm welcome, but I take comfort in knowing that you are reunited with Zio, Zia, and cousin Mario. Love, cousin Tina, Gus, and Family.
Such a sad day and what feels like the end of an era. Pierre was so incredibly hard working and it seemed his hours were beyond sunrise to sunset but he always had a wave and a smile. So thankful also greatly for your kindnesses to Brooke and family while in your employ, you will surely be missed by all.
Pierre, may you rest in peace. You are and were a kind and gentle giant. Brilliant and bright eyed caring soul whom I’m was fortunate to spend love and laughter with. You were the angel to my dear friend Erin. I am forever grateful for the impact you had. Although you are gone too soon, you will never be forgotten. Thank you for sharing your cleverness and kindness. The world is better place because of you and your family’s legacy.
So sorry to hear of Pierre passing, condolences to all the family.
Never before have I had such joy and gratitude after reading a memorial as this one, I’ve known Pierre and Mario for many years, didn’t meet often but when we did I couldn’t wait to get home and keep farming, these guys were infectious with their enthusiasm for life in general, for having so much on their plate they took everything in stride, thank you, thank you Erin for coming into Pierre’s life, I always said to the boys why don’t you get married!!! Oh we’ve dated but they get tired of riding around in the combine, lol I’m so glad Pierre found Erin or if Erin found Pierre, it was uplifting to see he finally got to travel and see God’s majesty past the farm, I’ve always said your most important decision in life is your relationship with Jesus our saviour and second one is a good wife. And it sure sounds like Pierre got things in order before the Lord called him home. I believe Pierre and Mario have already started farming again in heaven. Erin thank you again, I believe we met briefly in the kitchen at Pierre’s home. I’ll be gone for the month of July on a trip and regrettably miss the celebration of life
Dear Erin we are so sorry for the sudden loss of Pierre, the one who loved you deeply and received your boundless love and energy with joy! You did so much that brought him great joy and life experiences that he would not of otherwise had. The smile on his face said it all. We are praying for you as you grieve his loss.
So sorry to hear of Pierre passing, condolences to Erin and all the family . The Benedetti’s have been our great neighbours for over 55 years . The neighbourhood will never be the same with out them …..
Thoughts and prayers for the family, and friends of Pierre at this time. Wonderful to read the times shared together in his final years Erin. Memories to treasure for sure.
I’m so sorry to hear about Pierre’s passing. He was more than just a neighbouring farmer—he was a steady presence and a good friend over the years. Pierre, along with his brother, had a profound impact on my life. Their generosity, quiet wisdom, and strength of character shaped more than a few of my own values. Pierre was always smiling and loved to crack a joke from time to time. I’ll always be grateful for the time we shared and the example he set. He will be missed.
I never met Pierre. but we would have been friends...he sounds like a really great guy...So touching to read his story and feel the family love and energy....Thank you for the opportunity to read about Pierre's life and legacy. May God hold all his family and friends in the palm of his hand.God bless Farmers. GPG
We will cherish the memories of enjoying coffee and fellowship around the table in the kitchen on the hill; our treks for ice cream and dinners and lunches in and out with Erin and Pierre. He was a giant; wise, insightful, kind, and a generous man who didn't say much, but listened to what others had to say. Pierre could analyze people and always find the good. We loved being his Auntie Suze and Uncle Brian and will forever be here to support and love Erin.
Pierre will be so missed ..such a great and happy guy .. my deepest condolences to all who knew him .. I loved cutting his hair twice a year because it was so long when ge came in u couldn't see his face !! My sympathy's to his wife .. may you remember all the good times you had together .. Camilla millar
Such a kind & generous neighbour & friend. You will be missed but always in our hearts.
We are so sorry to hear of the passing of Pierre. Many years ago the boys parked their equipment in our front yard when changing equipment and sometimes during those times that included me, my twin sister, my dad or grandfather, taking a couple rounds in the tractor or combine! My mom will misses him from when she worked at the Castleton garage as one of her favorite customers. He will be truly missed. Rest in peace, Mr. Benedetti. The Wilson's
To the Benedetti family: so very sad to hear Pierre has passed. We had many visits with him & Mario when we were involved with the Great Pine Ridge Snowmobile Club. They were the nicest people and will be greatly missed in the community. Thinking of you all at this sad time.
A wonderful man who lived with Christian values. He touched the lives of many and left his mark in a very indelible way. His dreams will live on through Erin and those who were a daily part of the Benedetti family.
Rest in peace Pierre. Our family has soo many fond memories of you and Mario. You will be missed dearly.
Erin, Donald & I send our heartfelt condolences to you. I only met Pierre a few times, but it was clear how much he adored you. He exuded warmth, gentleness and kindness. Treasure your memories. ❤️
Dear Cousin, so sorry for your loss. My condolences. Doug Atkinson
Our condolences to Pierre's loved ones and friends. His legacy will be remembered by many for years to come. RIP Pierre!
So very sorry to hear of Pierre"s passing. My deepest condolances to all the family and friends. God Bless Rest easy Pierre you will be missed 🙏
We would like to express our sincerest condolences to the family. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Rest in piece Pierre ❤️
Angelo Rachelle and family. I am very sorry for your loss. I have heard many great stories of Pierre. May he rest in peace.
Great farmer and businessman with a strong work ethic and passion for agriculture, fair and honest . Rest in Peace Pierre!
So sorry to hear of Pierre's passing. My family has always had great admiration for Pierre and Mario's work ethic and care taken of our land for many years.Rest in Peace !
Dear Family I am sorry to hear the news of Pierre's passing. May your happy times sustain you at this difficult time. Sue and Joe La Berge.
As neighbour's of the Benedetti family for over 30 years, we experienced the kindness and generosity of Pierre and Mario. They treated us like family and were willing to help any time and any where. Our favorite memory is, every now and then, Pierre or Mario would show up with our little dog in their truck, who had decided it was time to run down to their farm from up on Dawson Rd. Odd thing for a little dog to do. I guess he wanted to just be near the brothers for the day. The angels in heaven have met someone as nice as them. He just showed up that way.
So very sorry to hear of Pierre's passing. We knew Pierre for a number of years. He was always willing to chat and always had a smile on his face.
My deepest condolences on the loss of Pierre. He will be truly missed.
We are so sorry for your loss Erin, what a shock ! Pierre is now reunited with one of his best friends and neighbours your Dad , John Atkinson. I will never forget how highly your Dad spoke of Pierre and Mario . The Benedetti brothers! We only had visited with Pierre a few times but felt like we have know him for years . His loving and gentle way of communicating was a gift indeed and we felt as we talked that we had known each other for a long time .! I loved that twinkle in his eye and his gentle humble manner . We could see how happy you made him and that he loved you dearly and was very proud of you! Erin, you are in our hearts and our prayers sweet niece ! We know you guys had great plans together and I am so sorry for this sudden and shocking loss! Sending all our love and heartfelt condolences .. Auntie Jan and Uncle Eldon xo🙏❤️
Pierre is an unforgettable person whom we were so honoured to meet just a short while ago. Thank you for spending time with us on your Yukon visit. Happy that you were able to complete the trip of a lifetime! Pierre is on a journey of a different kind now, we’ll always remember his charisma and charm. Warmth and support going out to Erin and the Benedetti family.
We will miss Pierre's Joyful easy going manner. We always enjoyed the visits we had with him throughout the years.
I’m so, so sorry for your loss Erin, many condolences, your in my prayers.
So very sad Pierre (Peiro) that we won't be able to spend time together any longer! We will miss you dearly! I'm glad we were able to spend time together at my place in Florida this past February. Some wonderful memories that we will cherish! I have always been very proud to have you as my cousin! You are a wonderful human being! Rest in peace my cousin, and say hello to your father, mother and brother! Love and admiration always your cousin Carmine and family!