Walter J. Benke

Walter J. Benke, 90, of Jefferson City, passed away Sunday, January 20, 2013, at his home. He was born June 16, 1922, in Jefferson City, Missouri, the son of the late Walter John and Una (Nagelin) Benke Sr. He was united in marriage on February 17, 1941, to Bettie M. Cook who survives at the home. Walter was a 1940 graduate of Jefferson City High School. He and Bettie owned and operated Benke's Trade Center in Fulton, Missouri, and Salisch Paint and Glass Company in Jefferson City. He was a member of First Assembly of God and Calvary Assembly of God. Walter enjoyed collecting and refinishing antiques and fixing things around their family home. He loved to spend time with his family, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Both he and his wife were ordained ministers and active in Bridge the Gap Ministries. They lived in Florida for nine years, where Walter spent a great amount of time as a lay minister in Ocala. Walter is also survived by one daughter: Darla (Dwayne) Huffine of Jefferson City; one son: Tom (Joan) Benke of Jefferson City; one brother: Jack Edward (Betty) Benke of Jefferson City; 5 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren, and one great-great- granddaughter. Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by one sister: Charlotte Odam and one grandson: Timothy Brett Huffine. A Video Tribute Service will be held at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, January 22, 2013, at the First Assembly of God, where a Memorial Service will follow at 7:00 p.m., with Rev. Lowell Perkins and Rev. Jeff Higbie officiating. Private graveside services will be held Tuesday, January 22, 2013, at Centertown City Cemetery. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the Calvary Assembly of God. Arrangements are under the direction of HOUSER-MILLARD Funeral Directors, 2613 W. Main St., (573) 636-3838. Condolences may be left for the family online at www.millardfamilychapels.com