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This Book of Memories memorial website is designed to be a permanent tribute paying tribute to the life and memory of John Benner. It allows family and friends a place to re-visit, interact with each other, share and enhance this tribute for future generations. We are both pleased and proud to provide the Book of Memories to the families of our community.

Thank you.

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Coach Benner

So many great memories attached to Coach. 

A millennia ago, his son Dave, Jim Ryan, Jim Burroughs, and a host of others, enjoyed the benefits of Mr. Benner's love for sports.  Dave, Jim R., and I shot baskets many nights in their backyard on the dirt surface, at the hoop and under the spotlight that Coach Benner erected for us.  

My memories of Little League, playing for Coach Benner, were rekindled every time I tossed a softball to my daughters, every time I took the field as a coach of their Little League teams, and now every time I take the field as a high school varsity softball coach.

"Throw it hard!"

"Hurt my hand!"

"If you make a bad throw, YOU go get it."

"Swing at everything!" (Batting practice credo.)

We learned to play the right way.  I try to teach it the same way.

I once overheard him remark to an assistant coach that I was "so nonchalant" in my play as a farm leaguer (sub-Little League).  I didn't know what it meant but I was so inwardly pleased that he acknowledged my performance.  It SOUNDED like a compliment!

Rest in peace, Coach.  And thank you for contributing to my childhood so positively.


Mrs. Benner and family, so sorry for your loss.

Posted by Steve Merritt
Tuesday March 27, 2018 at 12:29 pm
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