David E. "Weasel" Benkert's Obituary
David E. “Weasel” Benkert, age 66, of Nunica passed away Sunday, April 9, 2017 at the Leila and Cyrus Poppen Hospice Residence. He was born August 30, 1950, to Eugene Richard and Louise C. (Kleist) Benkert, and married Sherryn Gayle “Sherry” Barbrick on December 8, 1973, in Spring Lake.
David served his country in the Army during the Vietnam war. He attended numerous colleges (just to see if he could do it), and he did, receiving a degree in computer science. David worked as a brick and block mason for Draper Construction for 30 years. He enjoyed volunteering for Feeding America, loved traveling, all sports, going to the casino, and playing cribbage with his group at Norton Shores Library on Tuesday and Thursdays. David was well known for his backroading adventures, going well off the beaten path and taking the road less traveled.
He is lovingly remembered by his wife, Sherryn “Sherry” Benkert of Nunica; two brothers, Terry (Marilyn) Benkert, and Chuck (Karen) Benkert; three sisters-in-law: Linda (Ray) Mulder, Pam (Jack) Dickman, and Carol Allen; four brothers-in-law: Craig (Lou) Barbrick, Ron (Gretta) Barbrick, Dave (Sharon) Barbrick, and Mark Barbrick; his mother-in-law, Geneva Barbrick; and numerous nieces and nephews; and great nieces, and great nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, his two brothers, Dan “Winger” Benkert (his twin), and Ted Benkert.
A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday April 22, 2017, at Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, The VanZantwick Chapel with Rev. Peter Theune officiating. Friends may meet the family one hour prior to the service. Interment will be in Spring Lake Township Cemetery. Memorials to Feeding America are appreciated. Share memories with the family at their online guest book at www.sytsemafh.com.
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