Benito “Benny” De Rosa moved to Staten Island in the late 1970s and established Pastosa Ravioli in Eltingville, a thriving store that is part of his food legacy to the borough. The pasta-maker and shopkeep, known for his remarkable work ethic, love for America and dedication to his family, passed away on Saturday at 79.

On Tuesday morning, customers at the store hugged Danny, one of Benny’s three children, who manages the operation. Otherwise it was business as usual for the Italian specialty store, known for its fresh mozzarella, pasta and ravioli made on the premises.