Obituary of John E. Benner

John “Jack” Benner, 84, of Rome NY, passed away on August 3, 2024 at the Wynn Hospital with loved ones at his side following a prolonged illness.

Jack was born May 21, 1940 to L. George “Bud” and Mary (Reilley) Benner. He grew up on W. Court Street in a house built by his great grandfather. Jack graduated from Rome Free Academy and attended Utica College where he was a member of the ADK fraternity.

In 1966 he met Alice Erickson and they were married on August 24, 1968. They spent 55 happy years together and had 2 children, John Jr and Amy, as well as several special pets over the years.

After several years in insurance, Jack started Benner Insurance Service in 1982. The agency continued through March 2024 and we will always remember Samuel Hester and Jerry Scalzo for their care in transitioning his business.

Jack had many interests including Boy Scout Troop Leader, memberships in Professional Insurance Agents (PIA), Rome Rotary, Clinton Lions Club, Rome YMCA, Griffiss Military Affairs Committee, the Rome Chamber of Commerce, and Ducks Unlimited. He was a lifetime member of the Rome Elks Club and the Stanwix Men’s Club. He was an avid hunter and fisherman and loved swimming including participating in several team triathlon events. He was known as the ‘lab whisperer” and wrote “Molly’s Big Day” which was published in the NYS Ducks Unlimited newsletter.

Jack was pre-deceased by his parents, his in-laws Walter and Mary Erickson, his brother-in-law Keith Erickson, and sisters-in-law, Elaine Dean and Deborah Freidell. He is survived by his beloved wife, Alice, his children, John and Amy (Gerry) Race, and his grandson, Nick Race. He also leaves behind his brother George “Joe” (Jean) Benner, sister Margaret “Peggy” Collins, brothers-in-law Carl (Eleanor) Erickson, Chris (Jean)Erickson, Kevin (Elaine) Erickson, and sister-in-law, Lori (Chris) Foster, as well as several special nieces and nephews.

Family and friends are invited to call  at Nunn and Harper Funeral Home, Inc., 418 N. George St., Rome, NY on Friday, August 9, 2024 from 4-6:00 p.m. There will be a service immediately following at 6:00 p.m. and a burial at St Mary’s Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to your favorite charity in Jack’s honor.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Nunn and Harper Funeral Home. You may view the obituary and offer condolences at www.nunnandharper.com