William "Pete" Benz

SUN PRAIRIE/DEFOREST—William J. “Pete” Benz, age 92, passed away on Tuesday, February 21, 2023.  He was born on July 10, 1930 to Peter and Sybilla (Wipperfurth) Benz.  He married Lois Merland on June 26, 1954.

Pete was a Korean War veteran and served from 1951-1953.  He was a member of American Legion, VFW and Elks Lodge 1540.

He worked for over 50 years as a concrete finisher and took great pride in his work.  He also was employed by Sun Prairie School District, retiring in 1997.

Pete is survived by his wife Lois; his sons Peter and Perry (Staci); and grandson Parker; sisters-in-law Caroline Benz and Sonja (Lyman) Wipperfurth.

Pete was preceded in death by his parents; parents-in-law Arne and Esther Merland; sister Luella Jesberger; brothers Milton and Jerome; in-laws Robert Jesberger and Judy Benz; and Peter’s late fiancée Jane Krueck.

Respecting his wishes, there will be no public services.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are appreciated to the American Cancer Society , PO Box 6704 Hagerstown, MD 21741 (1-800-227-2345) or a charity of your choice.

“So when tomorrow starts without me, don’t think we’re far apart—for every time you think of me, I’m right there in your heart.”

Cress Funeral Home--- Sun Prairie

608-837-9054

When Parker was little walking with his grandpa:

I like to walk with Grandpa,

His steps, are small like mine.

He doesn’t say “now hurry up,”

He always takes his time.

I like to walk with Grandpa,

His eyes see things like mine do,

A butterfly, a fluffy cloud

Have hidden drops of dew.

Most people have to hurry,

They do not stop and see-

I’m glad that God made Grandpa

Unrushed, young like me.