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MICHAEL BENNER Obituary
MICHAEL WILLIAM
Ocala - Michael passed suddenly on Wednesday, October 26, 2016, a lovely warm, sunny day, of an apparent heart attack, while playing golf, one of his favorite past-times.
Michael was the devoted husband of surviving wife, Lee Longfield; loving and proud father of children, Lauren (Joe) Gardner and David Benner; doting grandfather of Grace and Elgin Gardner; sisters, Janet (Tom) Taylor and Barb (Tony) Schifano and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and treasured friends, Lora and Lorenzo.
His sisters and their husbands were good people who are extraordinary in their love and generosity, and helped Michael weather a difficult childhood. Lauren and her family had just moved to Florida, so Michael anticipated many joyous years with them.
Michael served in the Marine Corps during the Vietnam War, and was the recipient of a Purple Heart for injury in combat. Michael became a highly respected educator as a teacher, then an administrator in the Pontiac, MI, School District. He then served as Associate Dean Technology at Mott Community College in Flint, Michigan and at Milwaukee Area Technical College in Wisconsin. While at Mott, his leadership led to the construction of a state-of-the-art skills center.
After his retirement, Michael and Lee moved to Ocala, Florida, so that he could golf all year long. He was fortunate to meet many wonderful neighbors and friends in Countryside Farms and was proud to serve as President of the HOA. He was a member of the VFW.
Michael was a man possessed of old-fashioned virtues and values. He did not pursue wealth or recognition. He took satisfaction in work well done. He would help anyone. He was a kind, gentle, generous man who could facilitate solutions in a wide range of dilemmas. He loved his family and will be profoundly missed.
A Memorial Ceremony will be held at Roberts Funeral Home, 6241 S.W. SR-200 in Ocala on Saturday, November 5, 2016 at 1:00PM. Burial will be private at the Florida National Cemetery. Memorials in Michael's name to Marine Toys for Tots Foundation, 1825 Quantico Gateway Dr., Triangle, VA 22172, would be appreciated by his family.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for MICHAEL BENNER
November 9, 2016
My condolences to Mike's family. He truly was a wonderful man and I enjoyed working with him at MATC. He was always kind and friendly with me.
Lori Hains
Donald Wlodarski
November 8, 2016
I had the pleasure to work with a true professional in Mike Benner at the Milwaukee Area Technical College. Mr. Benner was a man of high moral values, honest, a hard working team player, always there for "his troops". The consummate professional. Rest in peace Mr. Benner.
Dorothy Walker
November 8, 2016
Mike as agreat person I had the privilege to work along side when he came to MATC.
At that time we both were at Oak Creek campus,
And that year what a Christmas party and
gracefully dressed up in the Santa suit we all had a
Fun laugh, that's how I will remember him always with
a smile. Pyayers to the family with sympathy.
Dorothy Walker , Dean
Milwaukee Area Technical College
700 W State St
Milwaukee, Wi 53233
[email protected]
Paula Zimmermann
November 8, 2016
I worked for Mike at Milwaukee Area Technical College. He was truly one of the most decent, kind human beings I have ever known. I am so sorry for his family's loss. Peace to all of you.
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Laura King- Strasser
November 7, 2016
Dave, I'm so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Lora Perkins
November 7, 2016
Michael was such a good friend. I am glad I got to talk to him a couple of weeks ago. Rest in peace, Michael. We will miss you.
Catherine
November 6, 2016
My sincere condolences to the family. Isaiah 51 verse 12 tells us that God himself is the One who gives comfort. May He be with you in this time of grief.
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Funeral services provided by:
Roberts of Ocala West Chapel6241 Southwest State Road 200, Ocala, FL 34476
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