Michael Lee Benschoter

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Michael Lee Benschoter, a loving son, father, brother, uncle, boyfriend and friend. Mike passed away unexpectedly at home on January 26, 2026. Mike was born on July 11, 1970, to Robert and Peggy (Knepper) Benschoter.

Mike was a jack of all trades. He especially enjoyed being self-employed and loved working on everything and anything, building relationships with customers who became friends. Mike's greatest joy was his daughter Kiya. Coaching her in softball from t-ball up until her travel ball years. Mike never missed a game and continued to follow Kiya's journey into her college years. Mike was happiest coaching 1st base with a gentle approach, encouraging the girls to work hard, but have fun. He most recently was the JV softball coach at Elmwood High School and coaching the Heat travel team. Mike loved the outdoors and enjoyed hunting every season. You could find him along with his hunting buddies all over the county looking for the next big prize or in his woods on his ranger or zipping down the road checking on friends.

Surviving is his daughter, Kiya Benschoter, mother Peggy Benschoter-Kagy, sister Carla (Dennis) Rinearson, the love of his life Earlene Broadwater and her daughter Montana Moore, sister-in-law, Tami Benschoter, and his nieces, nephews and many friends who he was so proud of. He was preceded in death by his father Robert "Bob" Benschoter, brother who was his best friend Stephen Benschoter, grandparents Dean and Ada Benschoter and Ralph and Nola Knepper and stepfather Harold Kagy.

Friends will be received on Thursday, January 29, 2026, from 4:00 – 8:00 pm at Barndt Funeral Home Wayne, Ohio where a celebration of life service will be held on Friday January 30, 2026, at 11:00 am. Burial will be held at Mt. Zion Cemetery immediately following the celebration of life service. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Elmwood FFA Alumni Association. In true Mike fashion, formal attire is not necessary. Casual dress is encouraged, and camouflage is welcome as a tribute to him. Online condolences can be sent to Mikes family at www.barndtfuneralhome.org.