John Benevelli

The community is mourning the tragic loss of our friend, family member, and neighbor John Benevelli. We grieve with his wife, Saiqa Panjsheri, and their son, Leo.

We miss and will continue to miss John so much. He lived his life for his son and loved baseball, fishing, their dog Shenandoah, and philosophical conversations. With his family, he was a part of many communities including Lafayette, Capitol City Little League, Blessed Sacrament, Mitchell's Marlins, Flag Star Football, and Cub Scout Pack 52. Every day we will collectively keep John's memory alive and honor him, support Saiqa and Leo, and facilitate Leo's participation in his many sports and activities, working to fill the enormous void that losing John has left behind.

During this unimaginable time, family, friends, and the many communities the family is part of will come together to support Leo and Saiqa. The number of people that have expressed their desire to help is heartening. This fund will help Saiqa and Leo with immediate and future needs and expenses.

Donations may be made through GoFundMe or offline. Offline donations have no fees taken from them and still be recognized in the campaign by amount and donor . Make checks out to Saiqa Panjsheri and deliver or send it to the Novikoffs at 3004 Legation Street and we will upload your donation.

Additional information may be provided about funeral arrangements and funds in trust for Leo.

Funeral and burial will take place on Friday, October 21 at Blessed Sacrament Church and Fairfax Park Memorial Gardens.

CLICK HERE for funeral details