Leroy Benge

Lee Benge, loving father, son, brother and friend passed on, Tuesday, February 23, 2010. Lee was born on July 19, 1943 in Hamilton, Ohio the son of Frank & Ruth (Martin) Benge. Lee proudly served his country as a Corporal in the U.S. Marines during Vietnam. After travelling across the ocean on aircraft carriers, touring throughout Vietnam, the Philippines and hiking such exotic ranges as Mount Fuji, Japan Lee finally sought the sun filled days and settled in Southern California. Lee went forward as a prototype mechanical engineer. His work crossed the boundaries of space engineering to new developments in metals and surgical equipment.

Lee not only took great pride in his work, but he truly enjoyed his family, friends and life itself. Whether he was out dancing, cruising Pacific Coast Highway on his motorbike, camping with loved ones, taking his daughter fishing or setting up the family website he did it all with great zest and a love for life. Over the years, as Lee's health declined he never once let his smile fade or his hope for the future of his daughter Wendy Benge of West Hollywood, California; his brother, Andy Benge of Somerville, Ohio; sisters & brothers-in-law, Connie & Pat Bryant of Columbus, Ohio, Debbie & Tim Wyatt of Hamilton, Ohio, Patsy (Sorrell) Benge of Santa Claus, Indiana and Rev. Lynda & Ben Woodard of Lexington, Kentucky along with his love and hope to many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Lee was preceded in death by his parents and brothers, Ronald P. Benge in 2007, Richard L. Benge in 2006 and Roger Wayne Benge in 1994.

Visitation will be held Saturday, March 6, 2010 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Nein-Barnes Funeral Home, 249 North Main Street, Camden, Ohio 45311 followed by the Funeral service at 12:00 p.m. The interment will be held in Somerville Cemetery with full military honors provided by the Preble County Honor Guard thereafter.

Memorial Contributions may be made to the Charity of One's Choice. Online condolences via the Web site at www.barnesfuneralhome.com