Dario Genovevo Benitez's Obituary
Dario Genovevo Benitez passed away Thursday January 1, 2026 in Tampa, Florida. He was born January 3, 1951 in Pinar del Rio, Cuba eldest to Dario Natividad Benitez and Onelia Francisca Padron.
He moved from Cuba to the United States in 1980, gaining new opportunities and creating a better life for his family. He built a career and small business in the trucking industry. Between this humble career, and the help of his wife at the time, Olga Benitez, he raised his children who wanted for nothing. As a driven man, he encouraged them to attend college and helped them become strong, compassionate, and motivated individuals.
He enjoyed spending time with family and friends, always the life of the party. While young, he loved to ride his motorcycle around Cuba. He also had a Plymouth that he absolutely appreciated driving and fixing up. During mid-life, a regular outing was Friday night dinners with family and friends after a hard week’s work. He loved traveling to the Caribbean, taking cruises, and exploring tropical places. Fishing off of the bridge in Indian Rocks Beach and the Causeway was a favorite past time; frying those fish as a reward for his efforts. When at home, at the yard, or hanging at someone’s home, no one appreciated playing dominoes more than he did. He competed against family and friends; he also used dominoes as an inaugural activity for new comers. For many years, he and his family took pleasure in annual beach vacations on the beautiful Florida beaches. Most recently, he enjoyed visits with his son at Arco Iris, where he indulged in some of his favorite treats like mamey shakes, croquetas, or a Napolitan pizza.
He was a helpful friend, always available to assist them in times of need. Frequently contributing so they could take care of their families, ensuring they had employment, and stayed in good spirits. His support for his friends over the years is unmatched.
He enjoyed playing with his grandson Drake and watching him grow. He couldn’t get enough joy to see his grandson loving and enjoying daily moments. Spending time with his son and daughter-in-law in their forever home, helping them set up their backyard, and sharing beautiful moments with them filled his heart. After his daughter moved, he loved visiting her and his son-in-law in California. During those trips he saw snow for the first time, won every time in Roulette, and helped them settled into their home. He cherished the time with his kids and grandkids as the most special moments in his life.
He is survived by his children Dario Benitez, Olga Garti, and Janelys Cordova; and grandchildren Drake Xavier Benitez, Kaleb Jimenez, and Jocelyn Jimenez.
The family will be holding a private burial and celebration of life to honor his life and the caring man that he was.
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