Barbara Louise Benzer

Barbara Louise Benzer, age 93, passed away on April 14, 2024 at St. Ann’s Home. Barb was born on May 8, 1930 in Grand Rapids, the daughter of Hugh H. & Margaret R. (Launiere) Ward. She was a lifelong resident of the area.

After graduation from Catholic Central HS, Barb went to work for her father at Wards Pharmacy. In 1954, Barbara was united in marriage to the love of her life, Joseph W. Benzer. Their family would grow to include seven children. Barb & Joe raised their children in a bustling Christian home, and instilled in them the importance of a quality faith-based education. In addition to managing the family, Barbara was her mother’s caregiver after she came to live with them as her health declined.

A woman of strong Catholic faith, Barb was dedicated to her church. She spent many years involved at St. Thomas the Apostle Church where she served on the funeral luncheon committee. She eventually moved to her current church home, St. Alphonsus Parish, where she enjoyed attending regular services and the fellowship of the congregation.

When Barbara took time for herself, she enjoyed sewing and crafting with a circle of friends. A strong-willed woman, Barbara will be remembered as the matriarch of her family who taught the importance of family and faith.

Barbara is survived by her children: Kathleen Hilton, Michael (Diana) Benzer, Gregory (Nancy) Benzer, Karen Fink, Steve (Lynne) Benzer, Robert (Karen) Benzer and Brian (Louise) Benzer; 14 grandchildren; 6 great-grandchildren; her sister-in-law Ruth “Keaner” Ward and close niece Pam Ward as well as several other relatives. She was preceded in death by her husband, Joe in 1988 and her brother Richard Ward.

Our family would like to express our gratitude to the staff at St. Ann’s Home, where mom resided. Barb had a special friendship with Joe, who would often marvel over their shared “passion” for Bingo! We would also like to thank Emmanuel Hospice for their compassionate care of our mom during her final days.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday April 23, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Alphonsus Parish. The family will receive friends for one hour prior to the service.

Memorial donations in memory of Barbara can be made to her church home, St. Alphonsus Parish, 224 Carrier St. NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49505.