Our Uncle Funeral Tribute Template Example is designed to help you pay a fitting tribute to your loved ones memory.
Ladies and gentlemen, family and friends, we gather here today to celebrate the life of Michael Charles Benner, a man who touched the lives of many within this community and beyond.
Mike came from a close-knit family as the oldest of four children, a role which some might say helped shape the man he became. In losing a brother, Myerel, and a sister, Cathy, he knew all too well what it meant to grieve. This only seemed to strengthen his bond with his remaining sibling, Walter, and sister Robin.
Mike entered fatherhood, helping to raise Kim and Tim from his first marriage to Valerie English. His dedication and love as a father shone through and it is with great honor that we look forward to hearing from his daughter Kim later on.
Need a Eulogy?
Get a Personalized Professional Eulogy Written For Your Loved One
As an animal lover, Mike also raised two dogs that he referred to as "his boys", whose presence not only gave him companionship but played a pivotal role in saving his life. Kim will be sharing that inspiring story with all of us later.
Growing up, it didn't take long for his generous and kind spirit to make itself known. Mike would help anyone when given the chance, even if it sometimes meant others taking advantage of his kind nature. That never discouraged him from continuing to reach out a hand to help the next person in need. As a member and PER of the Elks as well as a member of the Eagles and Moose Lodge, Mike devoted his time to his community of Woodland and its surrounding areas. For 49 years, he lived in the same property, showing his unwavering dedication to his community and family.
"When I do good, I feel good. When I do bad, I feel bad. And that's my religion." These words, famously spoken by Abraham Lincoln, encapsulate Mike's character perfectly. A man of integrity, honesty, and unwavering in his beliefs. Mike was a rare gem in this world, the kind of person who truly made a difference.
In spending time with him, we learned of his dedication to General Motors, where Mike worked for 35 years as a machine repairman - following in the footsteps of his father. He also had a short, spirited stint in the United States Air Force, where he was honorably discharged after displaying his undeniable penchant for a good party.
As many of us here can attest, Mike knew how to tell a great story. From the adventures in his GTO and out running the police to the infamous accident in Hastings while in Larry Whitaker’s '66 Cutlass, Mike was an engaging storyteller who we could listen to for hours.
As we stand here today, remembering Mike, I am reminded of the popular Elvis song, "My Way". Like the legendary Elvis sings, Mike lived his life on his own terms. And now, the end is near, and it's time for Mike to face his final curtain.
Mike was a one-of-a-kind person who will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. We should all strive to be more like this man who left such a lasting impact on our lives. As we part ways with our beloved Michael Charles Benner, let us carry forward his stories, his wisdom, and his unwavering spirit.
As we celebrate his life, I invite Kim to come up and share her words with us. May we all continue to keep Mike close to our hearts and remember the invaluable lessons he taught us along the way. Thank you.