Obituary of Robert Benes

Robert "Bob" Anton Benes March 26, 1938—June 25, 2012 Robert Anton Benes was born in Birch Run, Michigan on March 26, 1938. He was the son of the late Anton Benes and the late Anna (Brezina) Benes. He married Virginia Lee Stevens on January 21, 1960 in Birch Run. Robert worked for General Motors as a machine repairman. Bob was a member of the UAW, the Carleton Senior Citizens, and the Meijer Men's Coffee Gang. He was also a member of Monroe Missionary Baptist Church and their Joy Choir (Just Older Youth). Robert loved woodworking, crossword puzzles, and bowling. He was musically inclined, playing the trumpet and the coronet. Bob enjoyed the outdoors. He loved to go camping and gardening. Bob was a quick witted, funny man who loved to make people laugh. He was an avid reader and was amazed by mathematics. Bob was moral, honest and hardworking. He was very proud of his family, expecting them to always be their best. Ever since Bob was saved in 2002, he has joyfully awaited meeting his Savior face-to-face. Robert Anton Benes, age 74 of Monroe, passed away at the Lutheran Home after a brief illness. He was welcomed into the arms of Jesus on Monday, June 25, 2012. In addition to his parents, his passing was preceded by his wife, Virginia and a brother, Jerry. To cherish his memory he leaves his sons: Dell Benes of Monroe, Loren (Sheila) Benes of LaSalle; a daughter: Ann (Keith) Hammack of Monroe; two step-sons: Michael Esaak of Seattle, and Ward (Shelly) Esaak of Central Lake; grandchildren: Brandon (Laura) Benes, Ashley Benes, Spencer Benes, and Hannah Hammack; and great-grandchildren: Ari and Jaelynn. Friends may gather from 2:00pm until 8:00pm Friday, June 29, 2012 at Merkle Funeral Service, 2442 North Monroe Street (734) 384-518. A Celebration of His Life will be held at 10:00 am on Saturday, June 30, 2012 at Monroe Missionary Baptist Church. Pastor Roy Southerland will officiate, with Pastor Tony Lynn of Raisinville Baptist Church, co-officiating. A procession will follow to Roselawn Memorial Park. The family would like to express their sincerest thanks to the staff of the Lutheran home who gave Bob such tender-loving care during the last two weeks of his life. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations are suggested to Monroe Missionary Baptist Church. Online guests may leave condolences, share a photo, make a donation, or send floral arrangements by visiting www.merklefs.com ; Online Tributes page.