Sept.
6, 1942 - Feb. 18, 2009WALKERTON - Richard W. "Dick" Benwell, 66, residing in Walkerton, passed away Wednesday afternoon, February 18, in his home. Mr. Benwell was born on September 6, 1942 in Hammond, IN to the late Robert and Ruth (Harris) Benwell. He was raised in Pennsylvania, living most of his life in our local area. On November 20, 1982 at the North Liberty United Methodist Church, Dick married Linda I. (Peterson) Gouker who survives. Along with his wife, Linda, survivors include; two daughters, Dawn Benwell of Plymouth and Judy (James) Wienkauff of Hanna; three sons, Richard J. Benwell of Koontz Lake, Stanley Benwell of Oregon and Charles Benwell of Koontz Lake; two stepsons, Brett (Kari) Gouker of North Liberty and Bart Gouker of Columbus, OH; six grandchildren, Joe Benwell, Carol "Shug" Keller, Michael Benwell, Jenna Gouker, James Gouker, and Devan Stakosa; a great-grandson, Brayden; a sister, Barbara Chavez of Illinois; one brother, Randy Benwell of Florida; his former wife, Carol Benwell of Koontz Lake; and his canine companion, Polly. Mr. Benwell retired as a maintenance foreman from Wells Aluminum in 1998 after 20 years of employment. He was also self-employed in a delivery service. After retiring, Mr. Benwell enjoyed delivering science kits for schools for Scitt, Inc. where he established a wonderful friendship with his employer, Tim Ludwig. Mr. Benwell served his country proudly with the United States Navy where he served two tours with the Seabees during the Vietnam War. He was a lifetime member of the Disabled American Veterans. A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 28, 2009 at the North Liberty United Methodist Church. Rev. John Wolf, pastor of the church, will officiate. Military services will be conducted following the services. Friends may visit with the family following the services. Palmer Funeral Home-Lakeville and Southlawn Cremation Services is assisting with arrangements. Contributions in memory of Richard W. Benwell may be donated to the North Liberty United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 904, North Liberty, IN 46554, River Bend American Cancer Society, 919 E. Jefferson, South Bend, IN 46617, Down Syndrome of Indiana, 3050 N. Meridian Street, Indianapolis, IN 46208, or to any local Humane Society. Online condolences may be offered to the family at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com.