Bethel Loretta (Schwanke) Benac

Bethel Loretta Benac, fondly known as Beth, passed away peacefully on May 22, 2023, in Elkhart, Indiana, at the age of 94. Born on July 11, 1928, in DeMotte, Indiana, she was the daughter of Earl and Ada (Spurgeon) Schwanke.

Beth is survived by her son, Dwayne Benac of South Bend, IN., daughter, Barbara Benac of Portland, OR. She was the proud grandmother of Michael (Marianne Edwards Benac) of Osceola, IN. Mitch (Holly Hoffman Benac) of Big Turkey Lake, Indiana. Beth also leaves behind two great-grandchildren, Brianne and Brandon Benac, and three great-great-grandchildren, Eden, Vinny, and Roman and endless nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Robert J. Benac in 2022, son John Benac, and four, sisters and five, brothers.

A graduate of DeMotte High School, Beth went on to become a registered x-ray technician, dedicating her early career to helping others in the medical field. Later in life, she transitioned to a successful career as a realtor, where she continued to make a positive impact on the lives of those around her.

Beth was a woman of many interests and talents. She had a passion for gardening and was known for her green thumb, cultivating beautiful flowers and bountiful vegetable gardens. In addition to her gardening skills, Beth was a wonderful cook, always delighting family and friends with her delicious meals and treats. Her warm and welcoming presence was a constant source of comfort to those who knew her.

As a devout Catholic, Beth's faith played a significant role in her life. She was a selfless and faith-filled woman, always putting the needs of others before her own. Her unwavering devotion to her family was evident in her tireless efforts to ensure her children were well cared for and supported in their various activities. She was also a dedicated wife, always making sure her executive husband had his pressed white dress shirts ready for work.

Bethel Loretta Benac's life was a testament to her unwavering faith, devotion to her family, and her ability to bring joy to those around her. Her memory will be cherished by all who knew her, and her legacy will live on through the lives of her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren.

Mass of Christian burial will be held at 10:00 a.m. (CDT) on Saturday, June 10, 2023 at St. Cecilia Catholic Church, 334 15th St. SW, DeMotte, IN 46310. Friends may visit with the family at the church one hour prior to the memorial mass. Inurnment will immediately follow at DeMotte Cemetery. Palmer Funeral Home – Welsheimer North Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements.

Memorial contributions in Beth’s honor may be made to Heart to Heart Hospice, 1178 Fremont Ct., Ste 2, Elkhart, IN 46516

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com

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