Michael E. Benedum

Michael E. Benedum, (72) of Powell, OH, passed away on June 28, 2017 at the Kobacker Hospice House in Columbus, OH. Visiting hours will be held Friday, June 30 at Rutherford Funeral Home, 450 West Olentangy Street Powell, OH 43065 from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Funeral services will be held Saturday, July 1 at 10 a.m. at St. Joan of Arc Church, 10700 Liberty Rd. S Powell, OH 43065. Burial will follow at Africa Cemetery, 5175 S. Old State Rd., Lewis Center, OH 43035. Michael was born in Dennison, OH to Richard and June Benedum on March 27, 1945. He graduated from Dennison High School in 1963 and went on to receive his Bachelor’s Degree from Ohio Northern University and received his Master’s Degree from The University of Dayton. Michael proudly served in the US Army and went on to marry his best friend, Susan E. Durnwald on June 20, 1970 in Fremont, OH. Michael spent most of his career working in education as a Teacher, Coach and Athletic Director in New Philadelphia, OH. He was inducted into the Athletic Directors Hall of Fame in 1986. Michael served as a conversation buddy and enjoyed spending time with people learning English as their second language. Michael is preceded in death by his parents Richard and June Benedum. Michael is survived by his spouse of 47 years Susan Benedum, children Michele (Theodore) Hersey, Matthew (Michelle) Benedum, Sara (Carlos) Gibson and Beth Anne (Eric) Pierce. Brother Richard (Sharon) Benedum and grandchildren Olivia and Sophia Benedum and Dylan and Blake Gibson, along with numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. Michael never met a stranger and was a dear friend to many. He was known as a great story teller and loved spending time with family and friends. He was a family man and looked forward to spending time in Hilton Head, SC each summer with his family. Memorial contributions may be made in Michael Benedum’s name to… Dennison Railroad Depot Museum “Michael Benedum Memorial Fund” P.O Box 11 Dennison, OH 44621 The family wishes to extend their sincere thanks to all the doctors and nurses whom cared for Michael during his final days.

Michael E. Benedum

March 27, 1945 - June 28, 2017