Robert Benda

ROBERT BENDA

Brighton

Robert Benda, 82, of Washington, formerly of Brighton, died at his home Saturday July 3, 2021. He was born near Brighton on Dec. 25, 1938, to Leo John and Lois Elizabeth Ingham Benda. He grew up in the Brighton area and graduated from Brighton High School in 1956. Bob worked at Fairfield Engineering and Manufacturing Co. before enlisting in the U.S. Army and serving in Korea. He later worked at Crane Co. in Washington in electricalmMaintenance until he retired in 2006. He met his life partner, Evelyn Bixby, in 1995. He enjoyed fishing, visiting the casino, and was involved in Standard Bred Horse Racing and was a member of the U.S. Trotting Association. Bob enjoyed being a jokester and bringing smiles to his friends.

Bob is survived by his life partner, Evelyn Bixby of Washington; stepdaughter Stephanie Unternahrer; grandchild, Ashley Unternahrer; and sister, Evelyn Liles of Batavia.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Richard; and brother-in-law, Paul Liles.

Graveside funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday July 8, at Hillcrest Cemetery in Brighton with the Rev. Rick Zickefoose officiating. Visitation will be from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Wednesday at Gould Funeral Home in Brighton. A general memorial has been established and memorials may be brought to his service or mailed to Evelyn Bixby, 1320 N. Fourth Ave., Washington, IA 52353. Gould Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.