Michael M. Benya

Michael Martin Benya 11/11/1923 - 01/05/2025
Michael Martin Benya passed peacefully on Sunday afternoon, January 5th, 2025, following a brief illness. Mike's beloved wife Val and his two daughters, Adrienne and Sandra were by his side. He was 101 years old.
Mike was born on November 11, 1923, to Michael and Susan (nee Yaschur) Benya. He was the 8th of 11 children. His parents were Slovak-Catholic immigrants who made their home in Yonkers, New York. Mike and his family attended The Most Holy Trinity Church and it was an integral part of their life. Mike served as an altar boy for several years and his duties even included daily 6:30 AM mass.
Mike graduated from Commerce High School when he was 17. He worked as a bank teller before finding his life's work with the Santa Fe Railroad. When World War II came, he enlisted in the Army at West Point and served as a Quartermaster. Upon learning of his older brother having been wounded in Germany, Mike insisted on being where the fighting was and ultimately landed in the Pacific Theater.
After the war, he settled back into his career with the Santa Fe Railroad starting as a mailroom clerk. He quickly rose through the ranks and became a salesman. He attended the New York School of Transportation. His in-depth knowledge of the industry attracted attention and landed him a position with The Interstate Commerce Commission. Mike enjoyed a storied career which included numerous transfers to cities including New York, Memphis, Houston, Chicago, and Dallas. He completed his career in Chicago where he served as Executive Director of Sales.
No doubt one reason for his success was his love for and understanding of people. Mike possessed a quick wit, could tell an exceptionally good joke (or two) and he had a penchant for storytelling. However, most of his success, no doubt came from hard-work, a laser-like focus on his customers and an unwavering commitment to excellence. He retired from the Santa Fe Railroad in 1990 after a 47-year career.
Mike met his wife Valerie, while living in Dallas. They married on July 7, 1979. Their 45-year marriage was an amazing example of love, devotion and commitment to family.
After retirement, they decided to make a change and in 1997, Mike and Valerie moved to San Diego, CA. This allowed them to enjoy the fruits of their labor (and to get away from cold weather). There Mike continued his lifelong passion for competitive tennis and golf. Mike was an excellent athlete and played both sports well into his 80s.
Mike and Val remained in California until 2022, when they moved to Fox Run, a retirement community located in Novi, Michigan. Mike, aka Iron Mike, had begun to get a bit rusty and wanted to be closer to family.
Mike, with a twinkle in his eye, would tell you that he attributed his longevity to hot dogs and sauerkraut, which he loved more than the finest steak. He also loved Slovak holiday celebrations and was passionate about, faith, tennis, golf, watching sports, reading, cooking and caring for others. He spent his retirement as a faithful church member and gave selflessly to many ministries, Mike was a mentor to several young men and served as a children's court advocate.
Mike left his mark on virtually all who had the pleasure to meet him. He loved well and was well loved. Mike led a life that truly made the world a better place. He epitomized integrity, honesty, compassion, and excellence. We will miss him terribly but are comforted by knowing we will see him again one day.
Mike is pre-deceased by all his brothers and sisters: Peter, Patricia, Joe, Mary, Edward, Benjamin, Rose, Theresa, Vincent and Robert. He is survived by his wife, Valerie (nee Berka) and daughters, Adrienne (Steve) Thomas, Sandra (Mark) Moran, stepson Thomas Shaw. Grandchildren, David Shaw, Cody Shaw, Annika Shaw, Reece Moran, Andrew Moran and Kendall Moran. He is also survived by a host of cousins, nieces, nephews and great-nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be held on Friday, January 17, 2025 at St. James Catholic Church in Novi from 10:00 am until the Funeral Mass begins at 10:30 am. Following Mass, there will be a Committal Service and presentation of Military Honors at 1:00 pm at Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly. There will be a Lunch and Celebration of Michael's life from 11:00 am until 3:00 pm on Saturday, January 18, 2025 held in the Atrium Study at Saint John's Resort, 44045 Five Mile Road, Plymouth, MI 48170.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Mike's honor to his favorite charity, Food for the Poor