Kenneth DeWayne Benkert lived a full and meaningful life, completing his 94-year journey on March 28, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on October 31, 1931, to Alexander and Mary (Rauch) Benkert.

After graduating from Hersey Township Agricultural School in May 1949, Ken enlisted in the United States Air Force, proudly serving his country. Following his military service, he was employed by Hersey Sand and Gravel, until his retirement. Ken was committed to his community, serving on the LeRoy Village Council for more than 50 years and volunteered for over 27 years at LeRoy Razzasque Days’ Chicken BBQ. He was a member of Reed City VFW 2964 Hall and a lifelong member of LeRoy Zion Emmanuel Evangelical Lutheran Church, where he served on the church council. He was also a member of Augustana Lutheran Church in Tustin. Ken found great joy in spending time with family and friends, as well as hunting and fishing. His garden was well known in the community and was a true source of pride and happiness.

He is survived by his daughters, Deena Adema and Jody Jordan; son-in-law, Andrew (Jill) Knapp; grandchildren Devin (Emily) Adema, Deanna (Jeremy) Draper, Jordan (Calli Sweetland) Knapp, and Alexander (Hannah Geiger) Knapp; and his great-grandchildren Olive and Sidney Adema, Braden James, and Ashton and Myles Knapp. He is also survived by his sister, Lavern Snavley, as well as many nieces and nephews. Ken was preceded in death by his beloved wife of nearly 60 years, Diane (Erickson) Benkert, daughter, Jill Knapp, his parents, and siblings Robert and Lloyd Benkert, Virginia Lasch, Lorraine VanSyckle, and Marilyn Hadley.  

The family extends a special thank you to Hospice of Michigan Care Team for their compassionate care and Burkholder-Nielsen Funeral Home of McBain.

A celebration of life will be held on May 16 at Augustana Lutheran Church in Tustin. Visitation with family will begin at 10:00 am, followed by the service at 11:00 am. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Ken’s honor may be made to Augustana Lutheran Church or Hospice of Michigan.