Benz, Dr. David Bopoof Longwood, FL, passed to eternity Sunday, July 17, 2016, on his 60th birthday, after a courageous battle with ALS. Son of Ervin and Mildred "Micki" Benz, David had a lifelong passion for music and was gifted in sharing the joy it brought to him with others. David received his Bachelors Degree from Southwest Baptist University, his Masters from the University of Kansas, and his Doctorate from the University of Missouri. He was considered a master teacher and conductor who modeled the highest levels of artistry. His legacy remains in the lives of the countless number of students, colleagues, and audiences he inspired. He was preceded in passing by his father, Ervin Eugene Benz, and sister, Carol Miller. David is survived by his loving wife, Mary Ann Benz; mother, Mildred "Micki" Benz; children, Sarah Benz, Jonathan Benz (Teresa), and Derek Benz (fiancé, Shelby); brother, Mark Benz (Rhonda); sisters, Melody Benz and Merrilee Nightingale (Jerry); step-daughters, Elise, Beth Ann, and Grace Haenni; grandchildren, Luke, Austin, Laekyn, Emma, Ariana, Miles, Ryker, Mira, Marley, and Crosby; and Tyler, Sophia, Emma, and Kate Haring, who were like grandchildren to him. Memorial Contributions can be made to the ALS Association of Central Florida in memory of David. www.baldwinfairchildeastaltamonte.com

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Published by Orlando Sentinel on Jul. 20, 2016.

Memories and Condolences
for David Benz

Sponsored by The Orlando Sentinel.

12 Entries

Kelly Springer

December 28, 2024

Dr. Benz conducted the Louisiana College Chorale and Daystar. I was in both of these groups. He was a maticulous leader and lover of music. He often looked at and pointed directly at me when he heard something he didn't like. I was usually scooping, he couldn't stand that. I know that he made me a better singer. I truly respected him and am sorry to see that he has passed.

Corinne Zimmermann Wyss

May 20, 2024

David was our chorale director at Louisiana College. I remember him fondly. I'm sorry to hear of his passing due to ALS. He was an amazing and gifted person.

David asking choir members to listen.

Kevin Scantlan

September 22, 2016

I knew David from his years in Columbia, MO, where he attended Memorial Baptist. We sang in the choir together and also played baskeetball. I always enjoyed being in choir when he directed and enjoyed hearing him sing. His rendition of Ken Medema's "Moses" was fantastic.

July 25, 2016

My sincere condolences to the family for the loss of your loved one. May prayers strengthen you and memories comfort you. May our Lord Jesus Christ and God our Father, who loves us, comfort your hearts and make you firm. (2 Thessalonians 2:16, 17).

July 22, 2016

I was so sorry to hear of David's passing. I was a young administrator at Southwest Baptist University when he came to school there. He was an exceptional student and musician. His career has been remarkable. Please know you and your family will be in my thoughts and prayers.

Jerald L. Andrews

Tom & Anita Hodges

July 19, 2016

Dear Micki and family, I am so sorry to learn of the passing of David. The last time I saw him was when we attended another funeral, sometime before his marriage. I remember him as being a kind and caring person who I loved very much, as well as his sister Carol. We will miss him so much, but he will be with God along with other family members and with our precious son Mark. Thoughts and prayers are with you. Love Anita (Roe) & Tom Hodges, Cousin

Four cousins

July 19, 2016

Mcki Mary we are so saddened for your families, I hold fond memories of David and his gift of Music. So you know how far reaching his talent was, Noel Fulkerson the director of the Men's group I have sung with for 15 years contacted me the day of David's passing and expressed his condolences. He was aware through his own choral connections in the state. I expect David will soon be organizing a Choir of angels we all will hear some day
Our Love and prayers
Albert & Betty

All smiles while tour with Messiah Project in Linz, Austria, 2000

Dan and Melissa Scott

July 19, 2016

With our deepest sympathies - We are praying for peace and comfort for the Benz Family, and for all of us who have sorrow from the passing of David. Rest in sweet eternal peace dear friend. This earthly world lost a bright light, and the music paused in silence when you passed; and then, the Heavens became more luminous and joyous with song. Praise God this isn't a goodbye David, but a farewell until we meet again.

With love, your dear friends,

Bill Benz Sr

July 19, 2016

Micki and family, I am at a loss for words during this difficult time of loss of David. I have wonderful memories of David. My prayers to you all.
Bill Benz

Harlie Gallatin

July 19, 2016

Micki and family, David is singing with the angles in heaven, He will be missed but not forgotten. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Harlie, Nancy, & family

Sheila Benz

July 19, 2016

I am very sorry for your loss. I remember great times with David. One time David came by to visit us in Tennessee and the Bachelor was on. He sit there and watched it because he knew the bachelor that was currently on the show. Think that is the only time I have ever sit and watched that show for the full hour. I remember all the reunions where we got to visit. Since he and Bill are the same age they always had lots to talk about. We also have daughters the same age. Christina has always loved Davids children and thinks of them as her first cousins.

Anthony Glise

July 19, 2016

I'm very sorry for your loss. Good thoughts and prayers to the entire family.

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