Michael “Mike” L. Benjamin, 79, of St. Louis, Missouri, passed away on Thursday, May 15, 2025, after a valiant battle of ongoing health issues. Mike was born to Derrol and Dorothy Benjamin in Rockford, Illinois, on New Year's Day in 1946. He graduated from East High School, Class of 1963. On October 23, 1965, Mike married the love of his life, Carol Ann Pace. Mike served in the United States Army Reserves for six years and worked at several local places, including Trade Rite Foods and Hennig, Inc. He also worked for Washington University in St. Louis.

Although it is hard to summarize the man Mike was in a few words, it is essential to elaborate on the great fight Mike had in him. Mike was inspirational, showing his resilience and optimism. He was loved by many and was a friend of everyone who crossed his path. He loved his family deeply and was always there every step of the way. He took great pride in attending his grandkids' and great-grandchildren's events. He was a member of Salem Lutheran Church and the Blackhawk Athletic Club of Rockford.

Mike's life was a testament to his love for sports, from the thrill of high school games to the grandeur of professional-level matches. He was an avid bowler, a baseball player, and a passionate hunter and fisherman. His love of music covered many genres, and he was especially proud of his 8-gallon donation to the Northern Illinois Blood Bank. We cannot describe Mike without mentioning how he was the “King of Shortcuts” when giving directions.

He is survived by his wife of nearly 60 years, Carol; children, Diane Conti (Dirk Omer), Lisa (Greg) Green, Julie (Jason) Weber, and Michael (Maria) Benjamin Jr.; grandchildren, Nick (Julie), Alex, Brandon, Justin (Zsofi), Sammie (Stephen), Will, Ethan and Katie; six great-grandchildren; mother-in-law, Doris Pace; siblings, Linda (Randy) Piper, Sue (Jerry) Garrett; sister-in-law, Nancy Benjamin; brother-in-law, Tom Pace, and sister-in-law, Debbie (Charlie) Geisler, and many nieces and nephews.

He was reunited with his parents, Derrol and Dorothy; brothers, Jerry Benjamin and Robert Benjamin; and father-in-law, Robert (Bob) Pace. In lieu of flowers, you can donate to The ALS Association www.als.org in memory of his brother Robert Benjamin, or the charity of your choice.