Michael Benner

BENNER, MICHAEL WILLIAM Ocala - Michael passed suddenly on Wednesday, October 26, 2016, a lovely warm, sunny day, of an apparent heart attack, while playing golf, one of his favorite past-times. Michael was the devoted husband of surviving wife, Lee Longfield; loving and proud father of children, Lauren (Joe) Gardner and David Benner; doting grandfather of Grace and Elgin Gardner; sisters, Janet (Tom) Taylor and Barb (Tony) Schifano and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and treasured friends, Lora and Lorenzo. His sisters and their husbands were good people who are extraordinary in their love and generosity, and helped Michael weather a difficult childhood. Lauren and her family had just moved to Florida, so Michael anticipated many joyous years with them. Michael served in the Marine Corps during the Vietnam War, and was the recipient of a Purple Heart for injury in combat. Michael became a highly respected educator as a teacher, then an administrator in the Pontiac, MI, School District. He then served as Associate Dean Technology at Mott Community College in Flint, Michigan and at Milwaukee Area Technical College in Wisconsin. While at Mott, his leadership led to the construction of a state-of-the-art skills center. After his retirement, Michael and Lee moved to Ocala, Florida, so that he could golf all year long. He was fortunate to meet many wonderful neighbors and friends in Countryside Farms and was proud to serve as President of the HOA. He was a member of the VFW. Michael was a man possessed of old-fashioned virtues and values. He did not pursue wealth or recognition. He took satisfaction in work well done. He would help anyone. He was a kind, gentle, generous man who could facilitate solutions in a wide range of dilemmas. He loved his family and will be profoundly missed. A Memorial Ceremony will be held at Roberts Funeral Home, 6241 S.W. SR-200 in Ocala on Saturday, November 5, 2016 at 1:00PM. Burial will be private at the Florida National Cemetery. Memorials in Michael's name to Marine Toys for Tots Foundation, 1825 Quantico Gateway Dr., Triangle, VA 22172, would be appreciated by his family.

Michael Benner

September 6, 1946 - October 26, 2016