William Barry Benner

Benner, William B., Commander, US Navy (Retired), died after a long battle with cancer. He was born in Pittsburgh, PA on July 25, 1944 to the late William and Evelyn Benner. He is predeceased by his wife of 36 years, Pat. He is survived by his brother, Dan Benner; daughter, Celena (Andy) Ikensaa; son, Eric (Kim) Benner; 6 grandchildren, a great granddaughter and his significant other, Toye Davis. He was a graduate of Winter Park High, Rollins College and did graduate work in business at Auburn University. He was also a graduate of the US Navy flight training, retiring after 21 years in Naval Aviation. In his civilian career, he spent 26 years in computer sales with Data General, Digital Equipment and Sun Microsystems, winning numerous sales awards. He was a Florida Master Gardener, and a volunteer Garden Guide at Leu Gardens. He was also a vintage car collector and frequent exhibitor at car shows. He will be remembered as a straight talking, no-nonsense type of guy but someone who also was available to anyone who needed his help. He particularly enjoyed being the Chair of his high school reunion committee and was an avid supporter of Navy Football. A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, Dec. 27 at 1 PM at Baldwin Fairchild Funeral Home, Ivanhoe Chapel, 301 NE Ivanhoe Blvd. Orlando.