Bernard A. Benchley

Bernard Benchley, 78 of Clare passed away Monday, November 15, 2021. He was born February 14, 1943 in Clare, Michigan to the late Kenneth H. and Mildred S. (Durkee) Benchley. He married the love of his life Jean Reger on August 26, 1961. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. Family was everything to Bernard; they enjoyed having the family reunions at their home every year. He was an honest man and worked hard at everything he did, instilling that in his sons. He would help anyone in need; he loved going down to his building and working on his projects. He was a kind hearted, people person, who always had a story to tell, along with a little advice. He loved having coffee with his friends weekly and hitting all the auctions. He loved the Lord and enjoyed attending the Nazarene Church in Clare. He will be missed by many. Bernard is survived by his wife Jean of 60 years; 4 children, Rick (Lori), Mark (Kris), Jerry (Karen) and Joe (Kathy) Benchley. He is also survived by 13 grandchildren, Sara, Heather and Corissa Benchley, Eric, Melissa and Joshua Benchley, Katherine (Bob) Cadeau, Jessica and Nicole Benchley, Samantha, Nathan, Austin and Meagan Benchley; 3 great grandchildren Aiden Benchley, Jack and Evelyn Cadeau. Bernard had 15 siblings, he is survived by 6 brothers and 3 sisters, Robert Benchley, Jean Boyd, Elmer (Virginia) Benchley, Dorothy Cameron, Revey (Margo) Benchley, Deloris Collins, Paul (Joyce) Benchley, Thomas Benchley and Kenneth (Cherrie) Benchley. He is survived by 2 sister-in-laws, Donna Benchley, Barb Benchley and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by 5 brothers and 1 sister, Miles Benchley, Lois Hammerberg, Floyd Benchley, Marvin Benchley, Daniel Benchley and Donald Benchley. Bernard was also predeceased by 4 brother-in-laws and 4 sister-in-laws, Maria Benchley, Kuno Hammerberg, Vivian Benchley, Dorothy Benchley, Nellie Benchley, Kent Boyd, Kenneth Cameron and Richard Collins. Your life was a blessing, your memory a treasure, you are loved beyond words and missed beyond measure. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Memorial Contributions are suggested to MidMichigan Home Care and Hospice. Arrangements were handled by the Clare Chapel of Stephenson-Wyman Funeral Home. On-line condolences may be left at www.stephenson-wyman.com

Bernard A. Benchley

February 14, 1943 - November 15, 2021