Steve R. "George" Beneker

Steven "George" Roy Beneker, age 69, of Osceola, Indiana, punched out on September 6, 2025, in Mishawaka. Born in Batesville, Indiana, in 1956, Steven lived a life marked by dedication to his family, friends, and community. Steven is survived by his wife, Linda (Westerfeld) Beneker; his son, Joshua (Christie Kline) Beneker; his daughters, Crystal Beneker (Jeffery Cummins) and Britny (Javier) Jimenez; and his grandchildren, Jacob, Abbigale, Melissa, Andrew, Annabelle, and Gabriel. Steven also leaves behind Lucas Carlton, who holds a special place in his heart. He is also survived by his sister, Jeanne (Joseph) Turnpaugh; brother, Keith (Ruth) Beneker; and brother-in-law, David Schantz. He was preceded in death by his parents, Martin and Mabel Beneker; his stepmother, Evelyn Beneker; and his sister, Marilyn Schantz. In his youth, Steven was an accomplished athlete, competing in track, football, and wrestling, and earning a collegiate scholarship for wrestling. A graduate of Indiana University in 1980, Steven's life was enriched by his hobbies, including slow-pitch softball, coaching Little League, and fixing things (especially small engines and bicycles). He was a steadfast, quietly determined man with a passion for hard work and a drive to help others. His unwavering work ethic and generous spirit fostered a deeply close-knit family, a source of great pride for him. A celebration of his life will be held at 4:00 PM on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at Crystal's house. Details or directions can be obtained by contacting the family. Cruz Family Funeral Home has been entrusted with his care.

The family kindly requests that, in lieu of cut flowers, live plants be sent if choosing to send flowers, or memorial contributions be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.

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