Darrel Eugene Bengry

Darrel Eugene Bengry, 94, of Escanaba, Michigan, passed away peacefully at Bishop Noa Home on Saturday, February 7, 2026. Born on November 9, 1931, in Caspian, Michigan, to Arthur and Ruth (Nelson) Bengry. Darrel was one of three children and grew up during the Great Depression which shaped his strong work ethic, resilience, and appreciation for life’s simple blessings.

He graduated from Stanbaugh High School in 1949. Never one to be forgotten, Darrel once found himself suspended for stomping his feet on the bleachers—an incident his mother promptly addressed before the school board to have him reinstated. During his high school years, he enjoyed singing, playing football, taking part in choir, and being active in conservation club. After graduation, Darrel proudly served his country in the United States Air Force from 1950 until his honorable discharge in 1953.

Following his service, Darrel attended Northern Michigan University under the GI Bill, earning his Bachelor of Arts degree in teaching. He married the love of his life, the former Marie Swenski, in 1954, in Stambaugh, Michigan, after seven years of courtship. Together they built a beautiful life, raising five children and sharing 71 years of marriage.

Darrel began his teaching career in Newberry before moving to Escanaba two years later. He dedicated his professional life to education, serving as a teacher and later as principal in Soo Hill, and eventually teaching history and economics at Escanaba Junior High School until his retirement. He took great pride in his students and especially enjoyed reconnecting with them throughout the years.

During the summer months he held various jobs some of which were a police officer, football coach, and gymnastics official. Even in his later days, he rarely forgot a face.

Deeply rooted in his community, Darrel was an active member of First Presbyterian Church, was Mason of the Year at  Masonic Lodge, Ahmed Temple Scottish Rite Consistory, Delta County Shriners in which he ensured that local children that were burn victims received free specialized care and served as Manager of the Delta County Teachers Credit Union. He also served 12 years as a Delta County Commissioner, taking great pride in representing and connecting with the residents of the county he loved.  He also served as a MEA contract negotiator.

A devoted Michigan sports fan, Darrel cheered faithfully for the Lions, Tigers, Red Wings, and Wolverines. He enjoyed woodworking, carpentry, and fixing just about anything that needed attention. In retirement, one of his greatest joys was sitting on the front porch with a simple glass of water, watching the day unfold. Every year he would take such pride in his vegetable garden.  He often quoted Shakespeare’s timeless advice: “To thine own self be true.”

Darrel will be remembered for his dedication to family, his service to his community, his steady presence, and the quiet wisdom he carried throughout his life.

He is survived by his wife of 71 years, Marie Bengry and children; Marcia Alessi of Los Angeles, CA, Glenn Bengry of Escanaba, MI, Beth (Brian) Douglas of Lodi, CA, and Craig Bengry of Escanaba, MI; 7 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, daughter Lori Bengry on April 7, 2025 and siblings Ralph and Delores.

The Bengry family would like to thank the staff at Bishop Noa Home and Dr. Nicole Linder for their compassionate care.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, February 19, 2026, from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM at Anderson Funeral Home in Escanaba. Masonic Services will be held at 3:00 p.m. Thursday at the Anderson Funeral Home Chapel with a Celebration of Life Service to follow with Rev. Daniel VanBeek officiating. Darrel will be buried in Lakeview Cemetery in the spring with full military honors.

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