Benton peacefully departed the arms of his loving family 
to enter into his eternal home on March 14, 2023. 
He was born on October 14, 1959 to Benton and Patricia Bass in the state of Illinois. 
Benton cherished his close bond with his sister Debra after the early losses of both of his parents and his infant brother, Brian.

He married his highschool sweetheart, Michele Kellenberger, on April 11th, 1981. 
After they married, they traveled both domestically and internationally while raising their two children, Benjamin and Keli. 
Together they laid the solid groundwork for what family is and should be.
 They honored their lifelong commitment in sickness and in health-for better or worse. 

Benton proudly served in the US Air Force as well as in Desert Storm. 
After retiring from the Air Force, he went on to serve his country in other ways through
 the VFW and was a part of the American Legion Post 110 for some time before moving to Mannford.
 As a devoted father, Benton could be found coaching, traveling, and mentoring his kids 
through their long soccer careers. His dedication continued onward to his grandchildren 
whom he cherished and enjoyed spending time with.

Benton took great joy in the simple things in life. 
A stroll through Harbor Freight, an art project with grandkids, and jamming out to music.
 A day spent with family was a day well spent. He lived his life with a servants heart, giving all he had to offer to those he loved most. 
Life wasn't always easy for him, but despite it all he always made the effort to be present and available for his family. 
His loss leaves a hole in the hearts of many friends and family that his love and memories will fill.