Obituary of Roman Gene Benedict

It is with great heartache that we announce our strong and sweet Roman is no longer present in his body here on earth. Roman Benedict passed away May 16, 2022, a whopping three years after being placed in hospice in early 2019. Roman was born February 17, 2017, to parents Kaitin (Kelly) and Adam Benedict, in Maplewood, Minn. He lived in St. Paul with his big brother, Hudson, and his fluffy cat, Arthur, in a busy home full of nurses who became his family. He is also survived by his grandparents: Kim and Steven Kelly, and Lois and Bruce Benedict; and his aunts, uncles, and cousins: Sean, Ashley, Shea, and Teagan Kelly; Luke and Casey Kelly; Kristen, John, Andy, and Eddie McBrien; and Brock, Chelsey, Melah, Lainey, and Ethan Benedict.

Roman loved watching cartoons, swimming in the hot tub with his family, reading books, and was an expert snuggler. He spent hours gazing up at the trees and was a massive fan of ducks (quack quack). Roman persevered through many obstacles that prevented him from finding comfort. Most people would consider these obstacles unmanageable. He inspired us all with his will to live and just be.

A celebration of Roman’s life will be held at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum in Chaska on June 2. A very small service with immediate family will be held under the trees followed by an open house at the picnic pavilion featuring many of Roman’s favorite things from 4-7 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, Roman’s family asks that donations be made to Crescent Cove, HopeKids MN, or Ronald McDonald House.

Please note: many people who work or live with medically fragile children like Ro may attend his celebration of life. Please consider wearing a mask and testing before the event, and do not attend if you are feeling ill. Thank you.