Daniel Ernesto Benavente

It is with steady hearts and fond remembrance that we announce the passing of Daniel Ernesto Benavente on Thursday, January 1, 2026, at the age of 42. Born in Waukesha on September 7, 1983, to Jorge Ernesto and Maria Cecilia (née Monterrey) Benavente, Daniel spent his early years in his hometown, graduating from Catholic Memorial High School and attending the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. He then ventured to Chicago to train at Second City, forging the foundation for his lifelong pursuit of comedy.

From sparking uncontrollable laughter at the family breakfast table—complete with the occasional spill—to captivating audiences on Miami's sun-drenched stages, Daniel was a true comedian at heart. Microphone in hand, he was electric, vibrant: swift of mind, fearless in delivery, and wholly committed to evoking joy. His true serenity came from this art—easing the weights of others, one clever quip at a time.

With a spirit both open and resilient, Daniel embraced people worldwide, loving deeply and sharing his compassion with those in greatest need. An avid explorer, he journeyed to eight countries, absorbing diverse cultures while offering his own with earnest grace.

Behind the scenes, he embodied sincerity and honor—genuine, unyielding, and always up for a spirited game of billiards. Daniel was a fierce competitor.

Family was his unwavering cornerstone; every Christmas, he returned with thoughtful gifts and heartfelt devotion. Be it tending bar, commanding the stage, or savoring pizza among friends, Daniel's bonds were priceless: authentic, nurturing, and eternal.

May we honor his legacy by embracing life with the same quiet strength, honest humor, and noble integrity.

Daniel is loved and will be deeply missed by his parents, Jorge E. and Cecilia Benavente, his brother’s Jorge A. (Emily) Benavente, Eduardo J. (Katy) Benavente; his dear nephew, Jorge C. Benavente and sweet niece Vienna Benavente. He is further survived by aunts and uncles: Guillermo (Martha) Monterrey, Rolando (Gloria) Monterrey, Jorge Monterrey, Edgar Benavente, Marlon (Cecilia) Benavente, Thelma (Jacinto) Amores, Ulises (Lucinda) Benavente, Renan (Maria Luisa) Benavente, many cousins and friends.

Visitation will be Tuesday, January 13, 2026 at Corpus Christi Parish, St William Church, 440 N. Moreland Blvd, Waukesha, WI 53188 from 10:00 AM until 11:45 AM. The funeral Mass will begin at 12:00 PM. Interment will follow at St. Joseph Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, a memorial can be made in Daniel’s name to a charity of your choice.