Jim Benz

Jim Benz, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and brother, died unexpectedly, during the night, on October 10, 2024. He was always a gentleman; a good man who was kind hearted, honest, and a good friend to many. He was well known in his Goleta neighborhood, chatting with neighbors as he walked his beloved Yorkie, Jimmy, on his daily walks.

Jim was born in La Crosse, Wisconsin on January 26, 1939. He was the eldest child of Albert and Ruth Benz. While growing up, he enjoyed tennis, baseball, track and basketball. At the age of 12, he started delivering newspapers. He attributed that job with developing his strong work ethic and financial responsibility. One of his paper route clients gave him his first set of golf clubs, which gave Jim his life-long love for the game of golf.

Jim met the love of his life, Rita Moen, when they both played clarinet in their high school band. He would also play clarinet during his college years for a professional dance band. Music would continue to be central in their lives – attending concerts, musicals, and dancing with the Stardusters club.

Jim and Rita were married August 3, 1957, and enjoyed 59 years of marriage. They were blessed with two daughters, Debbie and Linda, and three granddaughters Tanya, Michelle and Heidi. And a great grandson, Theodore. Jim and Rita’s love and devotion for each other was evident to anyone who saw them together. They shared a passion for many hobbies, including golf, bridge, tennis, music, and travel.

Jim graduated from University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1961 with a degree in Electrical Engineering. He was hired by GM/AC Sparkplug in Milwaukee, WI and worked in Milwaukee, Vandenberg AFB in California, Denver, CO and transferred to Santa Barbara in 1973. In his 34 year tenure at Delco, he worked as an Aerospace Engineer, promoted to Department Manager. He retired in 1995 to spend more time pursuing golf and travel with Rita. After retiring, Jim enrolled in H & R tax courses, and enjoyed assisting others with preparing their tax forms. He also volunteered at Trinity Lutheran Church as treasurer for many years.

After suffering a health crisis in 2022, Jim displayed a core of quiet strength and faith. He never complained about his challenges, and maintained a positive attitude. He enjoyed spending time with friends and family, time with his faithful dog, Jimmy, nightly phone conversations, with his dear friend Maggie, and playing bridge with his long time buddies. The family would like to thank his support team of Lori, Debbie, and Lenaya for all their help, love and support during that time.

Jim is survived by his daughter Debbie, granddaughters Tanya, Michelle and Heidi, great grandchild Theodore, sister Mary, brother John, and many nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of his life will be held on November 7, at 11:30 at Trinity Lutheran Church, located at 909 N. La Cumbre Road, Santa Barbara. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to a charity you feel passionate about.

Arrangements entrusted to Welch-Royce-Haider Funeral Chapels.