Benedeto O'Daniell

Benedeto O'Daniell came into this world on August 8, 2014, born in an ambulance parked outside his mother's home. The Fetal Diagnostic Team said that his surviving birth would be highly unlikely and nothing short of a miracle. They were absolutely correct—but not in the way they meant. Every day, every minute, every second with Benedeto was that miracle. From day one, he made a habit of defying the odds and proving the professionals wrong. He underwent countless surgeries and procedures, always pulling through—and making friends and an impact during each stay at The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia.

He was non-verbal, but that never stopped him from communicating. A look could tell you he was mad or sad—or just wanted you to change the channel. A movement let you know exactly what he was feeling or wanting. A smile could fill you with his love and joy for hours, even days. His laugh was absolutely contagious and one of a kind.

Benny was a gentle soul who saw the world in a beautiful way that only he could understand—finding joy in a smell, a sound, or a touch… especially a sound. When he was alone, you could hear him laughing through the baby monitor, having the greatest time in his own mind and with the Bluey decals on his bedroom wall. His mom always said he was a party animal when he did this.

Benedeto leaves behind his mother, Jennifer O'Daniell, and four brothers: Anthony (24), Demetrio (20), Tristano (12), and Julius (6). He is also survived by his father, Nicholas Salkowski; his stepmother, Kelli; and two step-siblings, Kennedy (12) and Paul (7).

Additionally, Benedeto is survived by his paternal great-grandmother, Catherine Salkowski; paternal grandparents Francesca and Stan Salkowski; and maternal grandparents Allie O'Daniell and Richard Martinez. He also leaves behind countless aunts, uncles, and cousins—each of whose lives he touched, even from afar. Benny's absence will be deeply felt by his heartbroken classmates and teachers at Washington Elementary, as well as by his amazing home-care nurses from Bayada.

His favorite things to do were to play on the floor with all his musical toys, make others laugh, listen to his mom sing and make noises just for him, watch her dance around, ride the school bus, go to school, and come home again. Excitement was a very regular emotion for him to display. He loved to watch Bluey and Mickey Mouse Clubhouse. Bingo was his favorite character, and he especially loved when Mom made quacking sounds.

One of the last gifts Benny left behind was a message from his beloved Bluey—a quote his mom hadn't even noticed until he passed, written on a poster hanging quietly on his bedroom door:

"Remember, I'm always here for you, even if you can't see me, because I love you."

—Bluey's Mom

Those words are a reminder that Benny's love and light will continue to shine—always here, even if we can't see him.

Benny, always know that Mommy, Daddy, and your brothers will always love you, never forget you, and carry you with us forever.

Join in celebrating Benny's life by wearing something casual: blue, white, light colors or a Bluey or Mickey Mouse Club House shirt or hat.

A visitation for all will be held on Tuesday, June 3, 2025 from 9:30 a.m. till 11 a.m. A remembrance, celebration of Benny's life and time for all to share will begin at 11 a.m.

Burial will follow in Most Blessed Sacrament Cemetery in Bally.

Warker~Troutman Funeral Home inc is honored to serve Benny's family.