Mark J. Benike

Mark J. Benike, 49, of Madison, WI and Venice, FL died unexpectedly on Thursday, August 19, 2010. Mark was born on August 28, 1960 in Madison, WI. He grew up in Madison, graduating from Memorial High School in 1979. He lived in the Madison area for many years working as a maintenance and handy man. He founded his own businesses; Benike Quality Maintenance and Benike and Son Maintenance, with his oldest son Michael. Poor health forced Mark into early retirement, splitting his time between Madison and Venice. It was always important for Mark to be near his family. Mark is survived by two sons, Michael Benike, of Madison, WI and Devon Benike, currently attending college in Ogden, Utah; sisters, Julie (Gary) Padley of Madison, Debi (Bob) Brabson of Sarasota, and Liz (Mike) O’Connor of Venice, nieces and nephews, Jacob, Megan, Grant and Crystal Padley, Robby and Josh Brabson, and Patrick and Kevin O’Connor. He is survived by numerous relatives and friends. He has been preceded in death by his parents, Don and Lois Benike, and his first wife and Michael’s mother, Laurie (aka “Poke”). Through the years, Mark was known as “Benny” to many of his closest friends. He loved golfing and especially sharing the golf cart with his dog and companion “Spanky”. Mark was an outgoing and kind man, always willing to give the shirt off his back to help his family and friends. His personality led anyone who met him to quickly become his “best buddy”. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.