Mary Bento Bonaventura

Hi my name is Daniel Padin and I'm raising money for my dear friend Mary Bento Bonaventura's amazing children Mia and Michael's Educational Fund.

On March 22, 2022, Mary Bento Bonaventura (49 years old), a devout Christian was called to heaven after a seven-year struggle with metastatic breast cancer. Mary lived a life of love, devotion, and care for those around her.

Mary's life was filled with love and happiness. Despite passing away at an early age, she left behind a legacy of devotion to her husband Mark, and unconditional love for her children, Mia and Michael. Mary's love was boundless and every action she took was to ensure their happiness.

Mary lived her life as a role model, dedicating herself to helping others. She began her journey in the medical field but eventually found her calling as a social worker. She spent years comforting and advocating for the elderly before becoming a prison social worker for those with mental illness. Throughout her 14-year career, Mary remained steadfast in her commitment to serving her clients and working closely with the DOC staff. Despite any challenges or obstacles, she always stood firm and worked alongside her colleagues.

Throughout her career, Mary showed us how to live life to the fullest. Despite battling cancer and undergoing chemotherapy and radiation, she never missed a day of work or a Sunday at church. She was a support system for others facing challenges and never hesitated to help, even while dealing with her own struggles. Mary's strength was unwavering, and she wrote her own obituary, viewing it as a chance to honor her family, raise awareness about metastatic breast cancer, and remind others of what is truly important in life.

As a friend of Mary, I often spoke with her about our families. We developed a strong bond through our discussions about family vacations and the challenges of being a spouse and parent. After Mary's passing, it was difficult for me not only to lose a friend but to see her husband and children in pain. I wanted to help the Bonaventura family but didn't know how. Reading Mary's obituary reminded me of her selflessness even in death. She wanted to ensure her children's future by requesting that donations be made to the Bonaventura Education Memorial Fund instead of flowers. This inspired me to support the family in this way and continue Mary's legacy.

I realized that I wanted to support the education memorial fund, but wasn't sure how with my busy schedule as a spouse, parent, Correctional Officer, and Martial Arts instructor. After some reflection and prayer, I finally found a way to assist.

As a martial artist, I have formed friendships based on values such as self-defense, support, and family security. I realized these were the same values Mary wanted to impart to her children. The best way to honor her memory and support the educational fund was by competing and raising money.

From this idea emerged the Polar Plunge and Sponsorship for the Massachusetts State Grand Championship tournament hosted and inspired by my great friend Master Ken Goodrich from Mass.

Please consider supporting Mary's children during this difficult time as they continue life without her.