Robert "Bob" Benham

Robert “Bob” Benham, age 87, of Cedar Springs, MI passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 9, 2026. He was born on February 23, 1939, to Leon and Eileen (Cooper) Benham and lived his entire life in Cedar Springs, a place he was proud to call home.

In 1961, Bob married the love of his life, MaryAnne (Schneider) Benham of Sparta, MI. Together, they shared 65 beautiful years of marriage and built a life centered around their family. Bob adored MaryAnne. Though he was often the quietest person in the room, he was her steady strength and faithful companion.

Bob was a man of few words, but those who knew him best understood how much he cared. He was patient, gentle, kind, and always there for his family. He also had a wonderfully cunning wit that would catch you when you least expected it, bringing laughter to those around him.

Bob held his Catholic faith close to his heart and treasured his parish family at St. John Paul II Catholic Church. He lived a simple life, one filled with the joys of simple pleasures -—time with family, caring for his yard, and his favorite pastime, riding his tractor. He looked forward to summer camping trips, bluegill fishing and watching his beloved Detroit Tigers. His favorite event of the year was hosting backyard fish fries for their extended family, bringing everyone together around good food, laughter, and time spent with the people he loved most.

As a young man, Bob worked on the family farm. After marrying MaryAnne in 1961, he began his career in the trucking industry where he proudly drove truck for Meijer for 46 years. During that time, he formed many lasting friendships that meant a great deal to him.

Bob is survived by his children, Denny (Cheryl) Benham, Amy (Brad) Smith, and Ken (Michelle) Benham; his grandchildren, Morgan (Trent) Jackson, Courtney (Ryan) Austin, Molly (Jake) Stevens, Nicole (Isaac) Miller, Erica (Justin) Torres, Randy Smith, Olivia (Brenden) Bogema, and Ethan Smith; step-grandchildren, Christopher Davis and Emily Davis; seven great-grandchildren; his sister, Kathleen Osterhagen, whom he loved dearly; and many beloved brothers and sisters-in-law, nieces, and nephews.

Bob was preceded in death by his beloved wife, MaryAnne; his parents, Leon and Eileen Benham; and his son, Brian Benham.

Bob lived a quiet life, but his love was anything but quiet. His family was his greatest joy, and the love, patience, faith, humor, and kindness he shared with those around him will remain with them always. He will be missed more than words can express and lovingly remembered by all who knew him.

The family will greet friends Thursday, August 13 from 5 – 8 pm at the K.E. Pike Funeral Home, Cedar Springs where a Rosary will be prayed at 7:30 pm. Mass of Christian Burial will be Friday 10:00 am at St. John Paul II Catholic Church, Cedar Springs. Rev. Fr. Lam Le celebrant. Interment St. Margaret Cemetery, Harvard. Memorial contributions may be made to Corewell Health Hospice or St. John Paul II Catholic Church.