John Edward Benich II

John Edward Benich II, aged 96, died peacefully early on June 6th, at home with his family by his side. John was born November 24, 1919, in Sugar Creek, Missouri. He joined the US Coast Guard and served in the Navy in the Pacific campaign. He saw the world and made life-long friends while fighting in WWII. In 1948, John married the love of his life, Maxine Yvonnette Johnson, and they made a home together in Independence, Missouri. Yvonnette worked at Sears Roebuck. John worked at Standard Oil for more than 33 years.

John loved all sports but especially baseball. He coached 3-2 League teams, teaching his players through persistence, confidence and teamwork. His teams were successful and won state titles. He was a devoted fan of the Royals and Chiefs.

John was a lifelong gardener and raised vegetables to share with family and friends. He enjoyed filling his yard with trees and flowers. He mowed his yard through the age of 93. His neighbors were his friends.

John’s faith was paramount. He served as a deacon in his church for 30 years and his compassion and devotion to helping others filled his life.

John is survived by wife, Yvonnette; son, John Benich and wife, Kathy Benich of Lenexa, KS; four nephews, two nieces, two great-nieces and two great-nephews; and a number of other relatives and close friends.

There will be a visitation from 10:00 to 11:00 AM on Saturday, June 11, 2016 at Mount Moriah, Newcomer, and Freeman Funeral Home, 10507 Holmes Rd in Kansas City, Missouri. A Chapel service will follow at 11:00. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be sent in his name to Catholic Community Hospice.