Benedetto Carroccetto, 67, of Palmer Twp., PA passed away on October 27, 2017, in St. Lukes Hospice House in Bethlehem, PA.

Ben was born on August 2, 1950, in San Fratello, Italy to the late Cirino and Carmela (Lo Balbo) Carroccetto.

He grew up in Sicily and Easton, PA then graduated from Wilson High School in Easton, PA in 1970. After high school, he attended Northampton Community College in Bethlehem, PA where he received an Associates Degree in General Studies in 1978. Ben was a 37 year veteran, serving both the regular Army and the New Jersey Army National Guard on active duty. His initial assignment was as a Generals Aide during the Vietnam War and he continued serving thru the Gulf War until his retirement. He achieved the rank of Master Sergeant and was highly decorated with numerous awards and distinctions, including Meritorious Service Medals (awarded 3 times), Army Commendation Medals (awarded 6 times), Army Achievement Medal (awarded 4 times), the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and The Honorable Order of St. Martin. After retiring from active duty, Ben worked at Picatinny Arsenal as an Analyst for 4 additional years. He was a member of the First and Fifth Tank Battalion Association, Essex Troop Association and Iron Horseman. He worked tirelessly as a Senior Counselor for the New Jersey National Guard Youth Camp.

Ben was a member of St. Jane Frances de Chantel Catholic Church, in Easton, PA. He enjoyed his retirement and spending time with his grandson Luca, woodworking, and walking his dog Leo.

Ben was married to Maria T. (Todaro) Carroccetto with whom he celebrated 40 years of marriage last August. In addition to his wife, Ben is survived by his daughter Carmelina Lombardi and husband Mario; grandchildren Luca Carmen Lombardi and expected granddaughter of Easton, PA; his brother Alfio Carroccetto and wife Susan of San Antonio, FL; nephews Charles Carroccetto and wife Kellie, and Alfio Carroccetto and wife Stephanie. He is preceded in death by his parents, Cirino and Carmela Carroccetto and beloved niece and goddaughter Bettina Carroccetto.

Calling hours will be heldon Thursdayfrom6:00 pm to 8:00 pmwith an additional calling houron Fridayfrom8:30 am to 9:30 amin Morello Funeral Home, Inc.,3720 Nicholas Street, Easton, PA(Palmer Twp). A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebratedon Fridayat10:30 amin St. Jane France de Chantal Catholic Church,4049 Hartley Avenue, Palmer Twp. Interment will be in Gethsemane Cemetery, Palmer Twp. Online condolences may be offered atwww.morellofuneralhome.com.