Ernest Benedict

1928 - 2025

ANGOLA - Ernest "Ernie" Benedict, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, peacefully passed away at the age of 96, on Tuesday, Jan. 21, 2025, in Angola, Indiana.

He was born on April 10, 1928, in Cardington, Ohio, son of the late Garnet H. and Ivah G. (Crist) Benedict. Ernie dedicated his life to serving his community and caring for his family.

Ernie graduated in 1947, and in August 1948, he joined the United States Air Force and served until his honorable discharge in July 1952.

Ernie was very skilled, which led him to have many different career opportunities. He had worked as a Machinist for Carnegie Stell Corp in Gary, Indiana, HPM in Mount Gilead, as a sales and engineering liaison, Modern Air in Toledo, Ohio, and Angola, Indiana, as a branch manager, owner of Crystal Ice and Zero Lockers in Mount Gilead, Arnold's Trucking in Mount Gilead as a truck driver, city worker for Mt. Gilead Street Department, maintenance tech for Morrow County Hospital, maintenance tech for Oak Manor Retirement Community in Largo, Florida, as well as a driver for his wife Lee, who was a visiting nurse in Reston, Virginia.??

Ernie was a Master Mason for more than 60 years, contributing to his lodge with dedication and commitment to the Masonic principles of brotherhood and charity.

In addition, he served as a volunteer fireman, demonstrating his selflessness and courage in serving and protecting his community.??

He is survived by his loving wife, Leona "Lee" Benedict, whom he married on Dec. 24, 1959; daughter Jeri Benedict, of Angola, Indiana; and son, Jon Benedict, of Tallahassee, Florida. Ernie also cherished his role as a grandfather to Joshua (Sophia) Benedict and Jacob (Pam) Benedict; and he took immense joy in the lives of his seven great-grandchildren, who will carry his legacy forward.

A graveside service for Ernie will take place on Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2025, at 2 p.m., at Glendale Union Cemetery, with full military honors.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to make a memorial contribution are asked to consider Steuben County Council on Aging, 1905 Wohlert St., Angola, IN 46703.

Gompf Funeral Service of Cardington is honored to have been chosen to assist the Benedict family with Ernie's final wishes, and condolences may be expressed at www.gompffh.com.