Bennie Clyde Savage

Long time resident of Coarsegold, CA

Born in Stephenville, Texas, to Reid and Annie Savage on July 29, 1934, which was also his father's birthday, Bennie Clyde Savage passed away on January 24, 2025, at the age of 90.

He spent his childhood in Kerman, California, where his family owned a small farm. Bennie was known for his bravery and kind-heartedness, traits that served him well throughout his life. He graduated from Kerman High School in 1952.

After high school, Ben joined the Navy, retiring 20 years later as a Chief Petty Officer. He was deployed to Viet Nam from 1968 -1971 where he served as the Assistant Naval Intelligence Liaison Officer. Ben was awarded both a Bronze Star medal with combat “V” for meritorious service and a Purple Heart for being wounded in combat. After returning from his deployment to Vietnam and before retiring, Ben managed the Navy officer's clubs in Yokohama and Yokosuka, Japan.

His work history was diverse and included roles as a stock broker, car sales, radio disc jockey, food & beverage/hotel management in Yosemite National Park at the Yosemite Lodge, Ahwahnee, and Wawona Hotels, and hotel owner & operator in El Portal, CA, and Independence, CA. He was also the owner of Rose’s Cafe, a pool hall in Easton, California; a real estate broker in Madera County; served on the Madera County Grand Jury; and as Security Sergeant at the Chukchansi Casino.

Ben was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Yoko, who passed on June 20, 2019. He is survived by his loving children Bob Savage, Lisa Kao (Brian), and Monica Wilson (Jon), as well as his grandchildren Kristen, Sebastian, Isabella, Alexander, Jasper, and Stella and great-grandchildren Brayden and Madi. Ben was the sibling of his older sister Jennie Spikes (deceased), younger sister Shirley Newman (deceased), and younger brother Bill Savage.

A faithful believer, Ben was raised Southern Baptist and held to his convictions throughout his life. Tough and strong-willed, his commitment to a vigorous pursuit of life defied his constant struggles with pain and illness. Even after his dear wife’s passing in 2019, Ben avowed to live as they once did, continuing to explore current events and politics, a true patriot at heart.

Ben's family extends their profound appreciation to everyone who offered their assistive hands with excellent in-home care, allowing him to live and die on his terms.

A Funeral Service to honor Ben's life will be held at Stephens and Bean Funeral Chapel, located at 202 North Teilman, Fresno, CA, on February 6, 2025, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am, followed by a Committal Service at Belmont Memorial Park, 201 N. Teilman Ave, Fresno, CA, from 11:00 am to 11:30 am.