William Elmer "Bill" Benkendorf

A Celebration of Life gathering for Bill Benkendorf, 91, Enid, will be 11:00 a.m. Friday, August 29, 2025, in the Zion Lutheran Church in Lahoma, Oklahoma with Pastor Dwayne Schroeder officiating. Cremation and arrangements are with Anderson-Burris Funeral Home & Crematory. William "Bill" Benkendorf was born December 3, 1933, in Enid, Oklahoma to Wilhelm Benkendorf and Emma (Brainard) Benkendorf and passed away on August 24, 2025, in Enid. Bill was a lifelong hardworking farmer born and raised in Enid, OK on the farm he grew up on. He graduated from Carrier High School in l952. From November 8, 1962 to February 28, 1966, he served in the US Navy. On May 16, 1982, he married Narumon "Thea" Keawpomma in Enid where they made their home. He was a passionate and constant learner of music, having taught himself how to play the guitar, steel guitar and banjo. He loved to play and perform with his friends. Bill was a devout Christian. His deep faith and service to the church was the cornerstone of his life and the source of his quiet strength. Aside from being a dedicated and loving husband, after his father's passing, he embraced the role of caregiver to ensure his beloved mother and sister were cared for until they were called home. He will be remembered for his passion for music, being a devoted husband, loving son, brother and uncle. Bill is survived by his wife, Thea Benkendorf; his sister Mary Lou Moehle; sister in law, Ann Benkendorf; nephews Carl Benkendorf (Joyce), Michael Moehle (Jana), and David Moehle, and Pranot ChivaLuksna (Helga); and nieces Rhonda Howerton (Kenny), Patsy Ross (Dennis), Debbie Henricks (Marvin), Misti ChivaLuksna Smith (Keith), and Pam ChivaLuksna Hamby (Jon). He was preceded in death by his parents Wilhelm and Emma Benkendorf, two brothers, Roy Benkendorf and Alfred Louis Benkendorf, and two sisters, Wilma Benkendorf and Lelace Bailey. Memorials may be made through the funeral home to Zion Lutheran Church or cemetery.