Benedict Joseph Marafino, Jr.'s Obituary
Benedict Joseph Marafino, Jr. passed away suddenly on December 31, 2011. He was born on February 11, 1947, in White Plains, New York, to Benedict J Marafino, Sr., and Theresa Marie Nuzzi. He was raised in San Leandro, California, and attended St Alphonsus Ligouri School, and Bishop O’Dowd High School, graduating in 1964. He then received a B.S. degree in chemistry from the California State University, Hayward, as well as a Ph.D. in pharmacology and toxicology from the University of California, Davis. He was board-certified in toxicology and enjoyed a long career with several biotechnology companies in the San Francisco Bay Area. Ben was also a member of the Berkeley Broadway Singers, where, as a baritone, he indulged his life-long passion for music. He also had a true flair for the stage and appeared in a wide variety of theatrical productions, most recently 'The King and I' at the Douglas Morrison Theater in Hayward. He is survived by his wife, Carol, son Ben III, brother Paul, sisters Mary Colburn and Theresa Louys, nephew Andrew Colburn, nieces Michelle Colburn, Rachel Peterka, and Amanda Louys, as well as by those whose lives he touched. He will be remembered for his big heart, his personal charm, and his love of life. Ben was a devoted husband, father, brother, uncle, friend, and son. Services will be held at the Chapel of the Chimes, 4499 Piedmont Avenue, Oakland, on Sunday, January 8th, at 1 P.M.
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