Delbert R. Benedict, loving husband, father, and grandfather, was called home to be with his Lord and Savior on Tuesday, April 22, 2025.
Delbert was born on June 3, 1931, the son of Roy and Thelma (Schatz) Benedict, in Falls City, Nebraska. He was baptized at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church near Falls City. Delbert grew up on a farm two miles South of Verdon, Nebraska. At five years old he began country school. After high school he stayed home and worked on the farm and did other jobs around the community. He served in the United States Air Force from 1952-1956, serving fourteen months of that time in the Philippines working on planes as a mechanic. Later he was stationed at Lincoln Air Force Base in Nebraska where he was promoted to Staff Sergeant in charge of a group of airplane mechanics.
Later, while attending Nebraska State Teachers College in Kearney, he met his future wife, Joyce Eiben. One night while studying at the library, Joyce came over to him and began a conversation that lasted quite a while. Delbert asked her out on a date, which involved mini golf and root beer floats, and the rest is history. They were married by Joyce’s father at a rural Nebraska church and enjoyed almost 65 years of marriage.
Professionally Delbert started out teaching Industrial Arts for a few years and eventually found his path to the career he loved at Nebraska Public Power District in Columbus, where he worked for 23 years as a Senior Engineering Technician. He enjoyed his work there and made many good friends. After retirement from NPPD the couple moved to Omaha.
In 1961 Delbert and Joyce became parents for the first time. Four more children followed with the last arrival in 1970. Delbert was a devoted husband and father. His wife and children were everything to him. He had a quiet faith that was strong and constant, believing deeply in the Word of God. He led his family by example and instilled in each child independence and responsibility. Becoming a grandparent to thirteen was one of Delbert’s greatest joys. He knew each of them as individuals and was there for them whenever possible. Delbert had a good sense of humor and a kind heart. He was dearly loved by his family and friends. He will live in our hearts forever.
Delbert is survived by his wife Joyce Benedict, of Omaha; Daughter Jennifer Van Gent (Randy) of Cedar Falls, IA; Son Mark (Sandy) of Dubuque, IA; Son Mike (Jodi) of Lincoln, NE; Daughter Karen Hoogner (Todd) of Omaha; Daughter Judy Benedict of Omaha; 13 Cherished Grandchildren: David Benedict, Thomas Van Gent, Rachael Benedict, Jack Van Gent, Carrie Russell (Paul), Sarah Benedict, Josh Hoogner, Josiah Benedict (Morgan), Emily Hoogner, Christine Anspach (Noah), Joelle Benedict, Olivia Stonerook, Catherine Benedict; and Great Grandchildren: Lydia and Abel Russell, Eliana Anspach; sister Darlene Fischer of Lincoln, NE; brother John Benedict (Susanne) of Cape Coral, FL; sister-in-law Elaine Specht of Hastings, NE. Delbert was preceded in death by his parents Roy and Thelma Benedict; parents-in-law Edwin and Ruth Eiben; brother-in-law Lloyd Fischer; brother-in-law Wayne Specht; sister-in-law Georgia Benedict; sister-in-law Carol Eiben.
FUNERAL SERVICE: Wednesday, April 30, 2025 at 11:30 am, with VISITATION one hour prior to the service, all at FaithWestwood United Methodist Church (4814 Oaks Lane).
GRAVESIDE SERVICE: Wednesday, April 30, 2025 at 2:30 pm at the Omaha National Cemetery, Omaha ,NE.
Braman Mortuary & Cremation Services
6505 S. 144th St. Omaha, NE 68137 / 402-895-3400
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