Donald E. Benschneider

1939 - 2026

Jun 11, 1939 - Mar 29, 2026

Donald E. Benschneider, 86, of Payne, passed away on Sunday, March 29, 2026 at his home.

Don was born in Ft. Wayne, Indiana on June 11, 1939, son of the late Ervin & Lucile (Overmyer) Benschneider.

Don devoted his life to hard work, beginning with a lifelong career in farming and in partnership in Wildcat Creek Farms. On December 13, 1981, he married the love of his life, Elaine (Hanenkratt), and together they built a life filled with love and many happy years. As a young man he enjoyed working at Van Wert airport, owning his own plane and instructing. Deeply committed to his community, Don served as Mayor of Payne and contributed his leadership to numerous organizations, including the Farm Credit, Countrymark, Inc., Landmark, Inc., Paulding Landmark, NCBA, CBI, Buckeye State Mutual Insurance, Orange Harbor Cooperative. He was also a dedicated member of the Payne Chamber of Commerce and the County Farm Bureau. In his free time, Don enjoyed snowmobiling trips in Michigan and traveling to Florida. Above all, he cherished time with his family, especially cheering on his grandchildren at their sporting events. Don will be remembered as a kind-hearted, soft-spoken man and a true role model to all who knew him.

Don will be sadly missed by his wife, Elaine; daughters, Terri (Lyle) Ulrey of Van Wert & Lanette (Jarrod) Dossen of Fort Wayne; grandchildren, Chris (Kali) Ulrey, parents of Sazi & Ophelia, Nicholas (Miranda) Ulrey parents of Locklin & Kollins, Blake (Loren) Dossen, parents of Bastian, Jude, Margaret, & one of the way, Branson (Karson) Dossen, parents of Beau & and one of the way & Bree Dossen.

In-laws, Phil & Betty Hanenkratt; Mike (Myra) Hanenkratt, Jill (George) Tsafarides, Jay Hanenkratt, Loraine Comfort, Van (Lisa) Hanenkratt, Corinne (Mike) Lamb and many nieces, nephews & friends.

Don was also preceded in death by his brother, Richard "Dick" Benschneider.

Viewing is Thursday, April 2nd from 4-7 PM with Masonic Service at 7 PM at Dooley Funeral Home, Payne.

Service is Friday, April 3rd at 10:30 AM with viewing one hour prior at the funeral home.

He will be laid to rest in Wiltsie Cemetery.

Memorials are to Elara Caring Hospice or the Payne Fire & EMS.

Fond mémoires may be shared at dooleyfuneralhome.com