John J. Benz, age 83, of Cornell, passed away Tuesday, December 5, 2017 at his home. He was born September 2, 1934 in Chicago, IL, the son of Fredrick and Josephine (Trash) Benz. He was raised on the family farm in Cornell and graduated from Perkins High School in 1952. John enlisted in the United States Army during the Korean War and served as a Specialist Third Class for two years until he was honorably discharged on February 28, 1957. He was employed for Northern Motors in Escanaba as a service manager for the Ford Motor Company for many years until his retirement in 1997. John had a passion for the outdoors and loved living in Cornell. He enjoyed playing cards and bowling.

John J. Benz is survived by children, Diane Benz of Escanaba, Joanne (Dan) Cass of Cornell, Fred Benz of Cornell, Susan Benz of IL, and Donna Benz of Gwinn; 14 grandchildren; and 14 great grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Edward; and his daughter, Verna Oja.

Visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., Saturday, December 16, 2017 at the Anderson Funeral Home in Escanaba. Memorial services celebrating the life of John will follow at 1:00 p.m., Saturday, in the Anderson Funeral Home Chapel with Father Jamie Ziminski officiating. Military Honors will be conducted following the memorial services by the Michigan Army National Guard. Burial will take place in Gardens of Rest Cemetery. 

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