Long time Berlin barber shop owner Mario Bennardo 92, a resident of New Britain passed away peacefully after a short illness on February 1, 2024, at Middlesex Hospital.

He was born in Palazzolo  Acreide, Sicily. He attended local schools and at the age of 16 he began his career as a young enterprising barber. He came to the United States when he was 27 years old after a short stay with his uncle in Venezuela. His father was Mauro Bennardo and his mother Nella.

He started two businesses, the first in Newington in Market Square, then opened a second shop in Berlin for over 50 years until his retirement. He loved all his customers and the time spent with them, whether it was for a haircut or coming in and sitting to talk about the daily events.

One of the greatest joys in his life was winning a new Cadillac in 1983 at the Saint  Anns Church raffle. He loved life in general but especially loved to eat.

He adored his wife, children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.

Mario is survived by his wife Rose (D’ Agata) Bennardo of 70 years of New Britain, His son Joseph Bennardo of Berlin, his two daughters Diane Brodeur and husband Raymond of East Hartford, Joanne Gagnon, and husband Michael Gagnon of Newington.

He leaves several beloved grandchildren, Walter, Krista, Kevin, Mark, Andrew, Kayla and 4 great grandchildren, Kailey, Brantley, Mason, Della.

A special thanks to Walter and his Fiancé Marta Moreno for their loving and exceptional daily care for Mario whom he resided with.

He also leaves his cousins Joseph and Alice Bottiglieri and their daughter Karen.

Visitation will be Wednesday February 7th from 9:00 am to 10:00 am at the Farrell Funeral Home 110 Franklin Sq. New Britain followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 AM at Saint Maurice Church, 100 Wightman Road New Britain. Entombment will follow at Saint Mary’s Cemetery, Mausoleum, 1141 Stanley Street. New Britain.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: “Middlesex Health Hospice Program” c/o Middlesex Health, Office of Philanthropy, 28 Crescent Street, Middletown, CT 06457 -You may give online at MiddlesexHealth.org/hospicedonation.