Michael Edward Benham

Mike was preceded in death by his parents, Curtis E. Benham in 2015 and Carol L. Benham in 2018. 

He survived by his wife, Tina Benham of English, his daughter, Jessica Starr (Craig) of Orleans, his sister, Tami B. Deal (Larry) of Laramie, Wyoming, and nephew, Gabe Deal (Lydia) of Laramie, Wyoming. He was blessed with one grandchild, Ellie Starr, who was the apple of her papaw’s eye. 

Mike graduated in 1973 from English High School. He was the President of Crawford County Security Company, Inc. where he proudly served Crawford County as an insurance agent for over 45 years. His daughter, Jessica, now carries on that legacy. 

Mike was an avid servant of his community serving as both the Fire Chief for the English Fire Department (50 years of service) and as a Town Board Member since 1997. He believed highly in the value of service and responsibility to the community that he loved. 

He was an IHSAA official for more than 25 years for basketball, volleyball, softball, and baseball. As an official he officiated 3 state tournaments and countless sectionals, regionals, and semi- states. His regular officiating partners, his daughter, Jessica and friend, Otis Broughton, made this a true passion for his spare time. 

Mike was a 25-year member of the Eckerty Masonic Lodge #719 and was a past Master. In lieu of flowers and memorial items, the family requests donations be made to the English Vol. Fire Department for continuation of the English Community Christmas Event held each Christmas Eve. This annual event provides toys and treats to local children and nearly 200 fruit baskets to local elderly citizens.