Donald L. Benz

Donald Lee Benz, 82, of Marengo, Indiana, passed away on September 17, 2025, surrounded by his family. He was born on June 22, 1943, to the late Matt and Mildred (Ritchie) Benz.

Don grew up on the family farm, where life was simple but full of hard work. He often spoke of "the good old days" - raising animals, working horses, milking cows, putting up hay, and learning the value of perseverance at an early age. These experiences instilled in him a lifelong love of the land, a strong work ethic, and the ability to fix or build just about anything.

An avid outdoorsman, Don enjoyed hunting, fishing, and sharing stories of his adventures. He had a gift for storytelling that could both entertain and teach, and he often pointed out spots along the road tied to memories of hunting, farming, or community life.

Don began his college years at Indiana Central College before transferring to Indiana State University, where he earned his degree in Industrial Arts. Becoming a teacher was one of the best decisions of his life. Through his teaching career, he shaped countless students, passing along not just technical skills but also lessons in discipline, respect, and resilience.

Another life-changing decision was purchasing the family farm - a leap of faith at the time - which became the heart of his family's life. It was on that farm that Don raised his children, taught them the value of hard work, and built a home where holiday gatherings and shared meals created memories that will be cherished for generations.

Faith was also central to Don's life. He was a dedicated member of Pilot Knob United Methodist Church for 70 years and later became a current member of Marengo Independent Methodist Church, where he continued to grow in faith and community.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Ron Benz; sister-in-law, Sarah; brother-in-law, Bob Hollis; brother-in-law, Darrell Poindexter; and his father- and mother-in-law, Robert and Doris Poindexter.

He is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Wilma K. (Poindexter) Benz; his sister, Phyllis Hollis; and brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law: Bob (Beth) Poindexter, Ron (Bev) Poindexter, Marlene Poindexter, Lyndon (Cindy) Poindexter, and Pam (Mark) Wilkes; along with many nieces and nephews.

He is lovingly remembered by his children: Kay Lea (Jeff) Crecelius of Marengo, IN; Kara (Jim) Elliott of Belvidere, IL; Kirk (Shavon) Benz of Marengo, IN; and Kim (Jim) Grizzel of Marengo, IN.

Don was blessed with thirteen grandchildren: Jelynn (Adam) Sheckells, Evan (Shayla) Crecelius, Korrie (Steve) Kozuhowski, Kalon (Kelly) Crecelius, Kollin (Mandi) Elliott, Kolten Benz, Kia (Tate) Griffin, Kaylee (Garrett) Purcell, Kloee (Dane) Grizzel, Zander Sandoval-Grizzel, Klayton (Kiersten) Grizzel, Zeriah (Kaitlyn) Grizzel, and Zavier Grizzel. He also cherished his thirteen great-grandchildren, with another expected in October.

Don also had grandchildren of the heart who brought him great joy: Trent (Samantha) Brewer, Daniel (Kacy) Allen, Jordan (Karlee) Culver, and Chris (Valerie) Novak.

To his family and friends, Don will be remembered as a hardworking man of faith, a devoted father and grandfather, a teacher and mentor, and a storyteller whose wisdom, humor, and love will live on in the generations he leaves behind.

"Though nothing can bring back the hour of splendor in the grass, of glory in the flower; we will grieve not, rather find strength in what remains behind." – William Wordsworth

Funeral services will be on Monday, September 22, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at the Marengo Independent Methodist Church, 1449 N. Hardy Road, Marengo, Indiana 47140. Interment will follow in the Pilot Knob Cemetery.

Visitation will be on Sunday, September 21, 2025 from 3-8 p.m. and after 9:00 a.m. until time of the service at 11:00 a.m., all at the church.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Harrison-Crawford Boys and Girls Club, In loving memory of Donald L. Benz.

Brown Funeral Home in Milltown, Indiana is entrusted with the arrangements.