Daniel J. Benkert

The 6th of 14 children of the late Nicholas and Bernardine (Boensch) Benkert, Daniel James Benkert passed away at the Saginaw VA Hospital, on Sunday, October 13, 2024 after a long illness at the age of 69 years.

Born September 27, 1955, Daniel attended Swan Valley High School, graduating as a member of its first graduating class in 1974. He enlisted in the U.S. Army shortly after graduation, serving for 5 years, including a stint as a stenographer and house staff member for WWII 5 Star General Omar Bradley.

In 1977, Daniel published a book of poetry entitled ‘SNOITCELFER-A Personal Approach to Thought’. Snoitcelfer is the word ‘reflections’ spelled backwards.

After his time in the Army, he enlisted in the U.S. Army Reserves. Daniel also worked for a number of years for Civil Service for the Department of Defense at Fort Huachuca, Arizona. During this time, he earned his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of Arizona, graduating in 1987. Daniel was an avid movie fan and was well known as a trivia champion. With his mother and his friends, he enjoyed extensive traveling throughout the country.

Daniel is survived by his 6 brothers: Nicholas; Lawrence; Tom (Tammy); Paul (Vicky); Peter (Irene); and Brian. Also, his 6 sisters: Bernadette Bingham; Eileen (John) Cieszlak; Kathleen (David) Eichler; Lorraine (Tim) Wozniak; Ruth (Mark) Rivette; and Barbara (John) Pitts. In addition, Dan is survived by his sister-in-law, Yuliia Benkert. He also leaves many nieces, nephews and cousins, as well as his Aunt Yvonne Boensch. Daniel was predeceased by his parents; his brother, Tony, as well as his brother-in-law, Marc Bingham and a sister-in-law, Pam Benkert.

Cremation has taken place, and a Funeral Mass will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, November 4, 2024 at Holy Spirit Catholic Church, 1035 North River Road, Saginaw, MI 48609. Fr. Peter Gaspeny will preside followed by the Rite of Committal at St. Andrews Cemetery with military honors conducted by the U.S. Army. Friends may visit with the family starting at 10:00 a.m. until the time of service. Memorial contributions may be directed to the wishes of the family. Funeral home arrangements are being provided by the Trahan Funeral Chapel.  For on-line sentiments, please go to:  www.trahanfc.com