Sheldon Wilbur Benz

And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose. For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. And those whom he predestined he also called, and those whom he called he also justified, and those whom he justified he also glorified. What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all, how will he not also with him graciously give us all things? Romans 8:28-32 Sheldon Wilbur Benz was born in Altoona, Pennsylvania on January 3, 1927 to Fred and Nellie Benz. Sheldon enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1944 with a passion to fly, a dream that was aborted by the end of the war in 1945. He finished his two year commitment in 1946, and went on to pursue an education in communications. Sheldon’s employment with the CIA began in 1951 and lasted until retirement in 1980. Thrilled with the opportunity to have his lifelong dream of travel and seeing the world, this career moved him and his family every two to four years, and enabled them to live in 6 countries of the world, taking them to the Far East, Latin America, the Middle East, Europe and Africa. Although employed by the CIA, his passion throughout life was to serve Christ and spread the gospel. He often said, “I am a missionary, supported by the United States government.” Left to treasure his legacy is his wife of 65 years, Margaret (Marnee). Psalm 127 Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain. Unless the Lord watches over the city the watchman stays awake in vain. It is in vain that you rise up early and go late to rest, eating the bread of anxious toil; for he gives his beloved sleep. Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward. Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the children of one’s youth. Blessed is the man who fills his quiver with them! He shall not be put to shame when he speaks with his enemies in the gate. Children: Stephen Lewis Benz and wife Karen Margaret (Peggy) Benz Colombo and husband Rev. Dr. Frederick Colombo Carolyn Benz Bierman and husband Rocky Ray Bierman Nancy Benz Koenig and husband Rev. James Steven Koenig Grandchildren: Frederick James John Colombo* Brian Paul Benz* Michelle Benz Klay Christina Colombo Sirois Kimberly Colombo Parker Heather Bierman Steven James Koenig* Katrina Bierman Grace Koenig April Bierman Philip Sheldon Koenig* Nathan Ray Bierman* David Russell Koenig* *Pallbearers Great grandchildren: Karissa Colombo Timothy Robert Benz Kiersten Colombo Andrew Stephen Benz Frederick Armando Colombo Michael Paul Benz Asher John Parker Josiah David Colombo Daniel John Klay Eliana Grace Violet Parker Baby Benz Honorary Pallbearers: Vinnie Tedeschi Clyde Rodgers Michael Lepak Dan Finnegan Robb Graham

Sheldon Wilbur Benz

January 3, 1927 - February 15, 2015