Arnold Benz

BENZ, ARNOLD, 86
Arnold Benz passed away peacefully on April 19, 2015 surrounded by his loving family. He was born on February 18, 1929 in Brooklyn, NY and grew up in Queens. He was the son of Edwin and Mary (Ruckel) Benz.
'Arnie' was a Chief Master Sergeant in the United States Air Force. Upon enlisting, he was trained as a court reporter, then manager of the legal office. He attended both Louisiana State University and the University of Maryland. His military career included assignments in New York, Panama, Japan, Vietnam and Washington, DC. His last assignment, capping a distinguished 26 years of service was that of Chief Circuit Court Administrator reporting to the Judge Advocate General in Washington, DC. He was a true patriot and proudly served his country with honor.
Arnold was predeceased by his parents and his daughter, Deborah. He is survived by the love of his life for 64 years, Marcelle 'Marcie' Berube Benz; his children James Benz and wife Linda of Louisville, KY, Barry Benz and wife Nancy of Bethesda, MD, and Mary Ellen Marcotte and husband William of Laconia, NH; his grandchildren Stephanie and Nicole Benz, Matthew Benz, and Leah, Drew and Justin Marcotte; his brother Edwin Benz and wife Mary of Ocala, FL; and many nieces and nephews.
Arnie loved music, especially jazz, and he attended several festivals in Sacramento and New Orleans. He would often belt out a tune if something was said that reminded him of a song and his music room was filled with thousands of recordings. He also loved sports. He was a member of the Air Force basketball team when he enlisted and continued to play recreationally well into his 60's. Wallyball ultimately became his personal sport and he enjoyed attending women's basketball and volleyball games at nearby colleges. In addition, he was an avid reader and looked forward to his daily crossword puzzles. He and Marcie lived at On Top of the World for 25 years. They were very active in the community and have fond memories of the many events they attended with their friends. He was a proud parishioner of Queen of Peace Catholic Church and his religion was very important to him.
As a brother, husband, father and grandfather, 'Pop' filled our lives with joy and laughter. He was a kind and gentle man who conveyed honesty and confidence in his children and grandchildren. The wisdom and care he shared with his family and friends lives on in their hearts.
Visitation will be held at the Hiers-Baxley Funeral Home, 9695 SW 110th St., Ocala, on Monday, April 27 from 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. His funeral mass will be celebrated on Tuesday, April 28 at 8:30 a.m. at Queen of Peace, 6455 SW Hwy 200, Ocala. Interment will be at a later date at Arlington National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in his name to Alpha Center for Women, 118 N. Pine Ave., Ocala, FL 34475. For online condolences and directions visit Hiers-Baxley.com.