Donald Nelson Benschoter, Jr., "Don”, age 82, of Tampa, Florida, passed away on Sunday, December 5, 2021. Don was born on February 7, 1939, in Toledo, Ohio. He was a 1957 graduate of Hillsborough High School and was a drag racer in Tampa in his youth.
Don served in the U.S. Army Reserves and the Florida National Guard. He worked for Delta Airlines, which coincided with his career as a NASCAR gasman, and retired from Delta after 30 years. He completed his working years as a manager for AutoZone. Don coached sporting teams of both of his children, and enjoyed racing, traveling, fishing, sports, jazz music, and time spent with his family.
Don is survived by Dotty, his wife of 63 years, children; Kim Kennan (Tom), Donny III (Cammie), granddaughter Ashlie Neeley, grandson Brandon Benschoter (Emily), 5 great-grandsons; twins Christian and Cayden, Gabriel, Gavin, and Nathaniel Neeley, and brothers; Bill (Dixie) and Jack (Melody). Don was preceded in death by his father, Donald Benschoter, his mother, Margaret Luna, and his brother, Larry.
A Graveside Service will be held for Donald on Friday, December 10, 2021, at 2:00 p.m. at Garden of Memories Cemetery, 4202 East Lake Avenue, Tampa, Florida. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.gardenofmemoriestampa.com for the Benschoter family.
