Bernard Benzala, of Antigo, formerly of Wittenberg, died Sunday, June 10, 2012 under the care of LeRoyer Hospice at Eastview Nursing Home after nearly a year long battle with cancer. He was 83 years old. He was born on June 23, 1928 in Ironwood, Michigan a son of John and Anna (Tkach) Benzala. He married Leona Kerstein on September 9, 1950 in Chicago, Ill. She survives.
He graduated from Luther L. Wright High School in Ironwood Michigan with the class of 1946.
He served with the United States Marines during WWII. After service he attended auto body repair school in Chicago. After working in Chicago for several years he moved to Mattoon, WI. and worked in Wausau. Mr. Benzala moved to Wittenberg in 1958 where he owned and operated Bernie's Body Shop for over 35 years. He moved to Antigo in 2004.
He was a member of the Wittenberg American Legion Post, the Knights of Columbus Council of Wittenberg and St. John Catholic Church in Antigo. He was an avid pool player and bowler.
Survivors including his wife are three daughters Judy (Gordon) Rutter of Roseburg, Oregon, Janice (Scott) Rutter of Merrill, Jeanne (James) Miller of Summit Lake; four grandchildren Matthew Rutter, Kent (Kristin) Rutter, Addison Rutter and Kendall Rutter; two great grandchildren Isaac and Hannah Rutter.
He was preceded in death by his parents a brother, John Benzala, two sisters, Mary Hiller, Ann Marcil.
A funeral Mass will be held on Wednesday at 10 a.m. at St. John Catholic Church, with Rev. Charles Hoffmann officiating. Visitation will be 9 a.m. until the time of services on Wednesday at the church.
Bradley Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.
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Antigo, Wisconsin 54409
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Antigo, Wisconsin 54409
Dear Judy and family,
I just learned of your father and husband's passing today and wanted to send my condolences. Speaking from recent experience, t is so hard to lose your dad. I wish you peace and joy in the memories he created with you.
Dear Lee and Girls,Sorry to hear about your husband and father.Bernie was a great man,going back years ago when Bernie and my father Homer used to shoot pool together ,wow what a combination for many years and not to mention Lee and Bea were a tag team also . God has got a very special and talented man.
Bernie was my Grandfather.
It breaks my heart to think of this immense loss to our family. During some parts of my day I swear his absence can't possibly be true. He was a gentleman to the very end and filled us with so many good times that we won't forget. I love you Grandpa.
Janice and Jeanne, I was sad to hear that your dad had passed away. He was always there for your mom as she has been getting older. My thoughts and prayers will be with you and your mom at this time.
Jeannie - I was so sorry to hear about the passing of your dad. I hope you and your family have many fond memories to help you through the grieving process.
Bernie was my father-in-law and friend. He was a striking example of everything a family man should be. He enjoyed himself immensely in social settings and worked hard to see that everyone had a good time. He layed his life on the line for his country by joining the Marines prior to the end of WWII, at the age of seventeen.
He was a role model to all the male members of his family. He was loved and will be missed.
Gordon
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