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Leon Matthew Benner

June 12, 1940 - March 5, 2022
Visitation
St. Mary Cathedral
1207 Columbia St
Lafayette, IN 47901
Monday 3/14
Service
St. Mary Cathedral
1207 Columbia St
Lafayette, IN 47901
Monday 3/14, 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Cemetery
St. Boniface Cemetery
2581 Schuyler Ave
Lafayette, IN 47905
Monday 3/14

Leon Matthew Benner, 81, of Lafayette Indiana, passed away on March 5th, 2022, in Lafayette, IN. Leon was born on June 12, 1940, to Matthew and Anna Benner in Lafayette, IN.  After graduating from Fowler High School in 1958, he enlisted in the United States Army where he honorably served for 2 years.

After his service, he married his loving wife Celeste (Senesac) Benner in 1963. The two were married for 43 years until her passing in 2007. They built a meaningful life together where they raised 3 sons and 1 daughter. In 1969 he landed his lifelong career with Von Tobel Lumber Company. There he formed a legacy of friends spanning from co-workers to customers.  He retired after 31 years.

Leon was a member of Saint Mary’s Catholic Church. He enjoyed playing golf, wood working, spending time with family, completing puzzles, and attending and cheering on Purdue sporting events.  He and his pals were avid Indianapolis 500 fans. They attended 55 straight races beginning in 1961 with their last race on the 100th anniversary running in 2016.  Leon was preceded in death by Celeste Benner (wife), Jan Fitch(daughter), and Thelma Benner (sister). He is survived by 3 sons: Matt (Krista) Benner, Ted Benner, and Jay Benner, all of Lafayette; 1 sister: Darlene Carter of Danville IL; 6 grandchildren: Meghan (Colby) Wright, Jacquelyn Peak, Jayson (Katie) Benner, Ashlie (Jordan) Marsell, Bradlee (Emily) Benner, Karlee (Austin) Kaiser; 5 great grandchildren: Ryker Marsell, Easton Marsell, Cannon Wright, Nox Marsell, and Carter Jo Benner. He is also survived by his incredible girlfriend of 13 years, Carol Casey.

Leon was known by many for his larger-than-life personality. He was a kindhearted, loving man who shared many positive stories and touched endless hearts.

Visitation will be Monday, March 14, 2022, from 10:00 am until 12:00 pm (noon) at St Mary Cathedral with Memorial Mass at 12:00 pm (noon). Father Dennis O’Keeffe officiating.

Inurnment will follow at St. Boniface Catholic Cemetery, Lafayette. IN.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to charity of donor’s choice.

You may leave condolences at www.soller-baker.com

 

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Visitation
St. Mary Cathedral
1207 Columbia St
Lafayette, IN 47901
Map
Monday 3/14
Service
St. Mary Cathedral
1207 Columbia St
Lafayette, IN 47901
Map
Monday 3/14, 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Cemetery
St. Boniface Cemetery
2581 Schuyler Ave
Lafayette, IN 47905
Map
Monday 3/14

Leon Matthew Benner, 81, of Lafayette Indiana, passed away on March 5th, 2022, in Lafayette, IN. Leon was born on June 12, 1940, to Matthew and Anna Benner in Lafayette, IN.  After graduating from Fowler High School in 1958, he enlisted in the United States Army where he honorably served for 2 years. After hisContinue Reading

See Condolences
Marty Utley left a message on March 21, 2022:
Leon was a kindhearted, loving man. We will miss his smile, but most of all his hugs. He was a special man. Sending Carol and the family my love and prayers. My deepest sympathy, Marty Utley
Marty Utley left a message on March 21, 2022:
Leon was a kindhearted, loving man. We will miss his smile, but most of all his hugs. He was a special man. Sending Carol and the family my love and prayers. My deepest sympathy, Marty Utley
Marty Utley left a message on March 21, 2022:
Leon was a kindhearted, loving man. We will miss his smile, but most of all his hugs. He was a special man. Sending Carol and the family my love and prayers. My deepest sympathy, Marty Utley
Brad Rody left a message on March 16, 2022:
My heart goes out to Leon's family for their loss. I worked for Leon at Von Tobels in the late 1980's while in high school and college. In both supervisory positions I have worked in through my 30 year career as a natural resource professional with the IDNR, I have thought from time to time of the personnel/management skills that I learned from watching Leon at the helm. He was great at being a firm and decisive leader while being a supportive and authoritative manager as needed. I am sure that he impacted many through his life and will be very missed.
Cathy Rhodes Gilman left a message on March 14, 2022:
I have such wonderful memories of Leon and Celeste at my wedding. They helped us plan the event and we had a great time. I send my thoughts and prayers to Matt, Ted, Jay and Carol. Leon was a incredible man and more than a friend, he was family.
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Brad Habig left a message on March 11, 2022:
I have fond memories of Leon, and of Celeste as well. The welcoming attitude of the Benner household and the jovial spirit always seemed to be present. It seemed like they always had something fun going on. I'm sure Leon will be missed by several generations now. My condolences to Matt, Krista, and the rest of the extended Benner family. May God bless you all.
Lafayette Urban Ministry left a message on March 10, 2022:
The Board and Staff of Lafayette Urban Ministry wish to extend our sincerest condolences to Carol, Leon's sons, sister, grandchildren and great-children, May God hold all of you in the palm of His hand.
David Gilbert left a message on March 10, 2022:
Loved working for Leon. He was the best kind of boss, you did your job he was your best friend, if you didn't he was the hammer.
Chico Hatke left a message on March 10, 2022:
I am so sorry to hear of Leon's passing. He was always very good to me. He always had that big smile on his face. Prays to all.
Steven Simms left a message on March 10, 2022:
In memory of Leon Matthew Benner, Steven Simms lit a candle
Steven Simms left a message on March 10, 2022:
In memory of Leon Matthew Benner, Steven Simms lit a candle
Steven Simms left a message on March 10, 2022:
In memory of Leon Matthew Benner, Steven Simms lit a candle
Alan Downing left a message on March 10, 2022:
In memory of Leon Matthew Benner, Alan Downing lit a candle
Betina & Jay Cochran left a message on March 9, 2022:
We are so saddened by the news of Leon's passing. He was such a fun guy who always wore a smile. He will surely be missed by all those who loved him. Our heartfelt condolences to Leon's family and to Carol. God bless.
Bob Trout left a message on March 9, 2022:
We are sorry to hear of "Mr. Benner's" passing. That's how I knew him. He always had a smile and enjoyed teasing all of the neighborhood kids. He will be missed. Leon's family is in my prayers.
Deb Talbott O’Malley left a message on March 9, 2022:
So very sorry to hear of his passing! Leon could light up a room and was such a wonderful man. He will be missed by so many! You will be in our thoughts and prayers!
Hal Youart left a message on March 9, 2022:
I was one of many friend’s Leon had and we will all miss him. He made such a positive difference in so many lives while he was with us. My most sincere condolence’s to the family. Hal Youart Rio Rancho, NM
Mary Jo Steele left a message on March 9, 2022:
Carol, so sorry for your loss…prayers for you and Leon’s family…
Soller-Baker Funeral Homes, Inc. left a message:
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.
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