In Loving Memory of William “Bill” James Benac
February 29, 1939 – March 11, 2026
William “Bill” James Benac was born on February 29, 1936, in Joliet, Illinois,
and passed away on March 11, 2026. He was preceded in death by his
parents, George and Mary; his sisters, Gen and Marge; and his brothers,
Matt, Rob, and Len.
He is survived by his brother, Dick; his sons, Patrick (Galina), Michael, and
Dr. Christopher (Julie); his grandchildren, Jason, Rachel, Leah, and
Christian; and his loving companion of 35 years, Shirley Williams. He is also
survived by his former wife, Nancy Jo Benac, the mother of his children.
Bill is also survived by Shirley’s children—Todd, Heidi, and Heather—as well
as Papaw’s special friend, Sierra, Shirley’s granddaughter; and many nieces
and nephews.
Bill was the youngest member of what he proudly called “the greatest
family ever”—the Benac clan. He graduated from Indiana University and
spent two years in the U.S. Army as an instructor in radio procedure. After
leaving the Army, Bill managed warehouses for 15 years. He owned and
operated Bill’s Bakery for 23 years. After semi–retiring, he drove a truck
through 48 states.
Bill enjoyed playing golf and watching sports. Although he played golf for 60
years without ever scoring a hole-in-one, he did achieve a personal triumph
by parring the front nine at Gleason Park in Gary, Indiana. His favorite songs
were “Ave Maria” and the “Notre Dame Victory March.”
There will be a celebration of life to be held at a later time. Stand by.
