Robert Benjamin

METROPOLIS -- Robert J. "Bob" Benjamin, 91, died Wednesday, May 4, 2011, in Lourdes Hospital in Paducah after a lengthy illness.

Services will be at 2 p.m. Monday, May 9, 2011, in Aikins-Farmer Funeral Home in Metropolis with the Rev. Mike Hardison officiating. Visitation will be from noon to 2 p.m. Monday at the funeral home.

Bob served in Civilian Conservation Corps and was stationed in Idaho. He enlisted in the Navy on Jan. 3, 1942, serving as a Coxswein, V6, until his discharge Sept. 10, 1945. He was employed with Metropolis city schools as a custodian, at IKT in Metropolis and Distributors Warehouse in Paducah. He was a member of Community Christian Church in Metropolis.

He was an avid fisherman and hunter and was known for his famous "Tornado" top water spinner. He also regaled his family and friends with his harmonica solos over the years, most recently entertaining the congregation at Community Christian and Happy Hearts.

Bob was born May 17, 1919, in Metropolis to Willard and Dora Owens Benjamin.

He married Guanita J. DeWitt on June 12, 1943. She preceded him in death after 54 years of marriage.

Mr. Benjamin is survived by his daughters, Saundra Keiffer of St. Joseph, Mo., and her husband, John, and children, Audrey and Alex; and LouAnn Elwell of Cobden and her husband, Jay, and stepsons, John and Jason; and his dear friend, Colleen Haley; as well as many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; three sisters, Phyllis, Gladys and Doris; and one brother, Walter.

He will be sorely missed by his friends and family, but they rejoice in his heavenly rest.

Condolences may be left online at www.aikinsfarmerfh.com.