Obituary of Michael Benton

Benton Michael “Mike” After a heroic battle with a rare form of liver and bile duct cancer, peacefully passed at home on Sunday, January 21, 2018 in the loving arms of his wife and surrounded by his family. Mike was originally from Kansas but has made Bridgeville/South Fayette his home for the past 20 years. Mike joined the United States Marine Corps in 1973, served his country for 4 years, was discharged and attended college at Kansas State where he graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Architectural Engineering. He then re-enlisted as an officer in the USMC where he served until 1993. He had the privilege of serving in California, Florida, Okinawa, and in Quantico Virginia. He began his civilian career at the Urban Redevelopment Authority of Pittsburgh where he served as a Project Manager. Mike later worked at L.R. Kimball Engineering as a Senior Engineer. Most recently, Mike worked for the Township of South Fayette, where he served as the Township Engineer as well as holding the position of Director of Engineering and Planning. He was also the Zoning Officer for South Fayette Township. Mike is survived by his wife, Valerie and his children Vince (Maggie), Valerie (T.J.), Victoria (Jason), Courtney, and Matt (Bonnie). He is the son of Floyd Benton and Ida Townsend. Mike has brothers Larry Benton and Darrell Benton along with sisters Sue Richardson (deceased) and Audrey Branum. He has four grandchildren in Virginia and many nieces and nephews in and around Kansas as well as Pittsburgh. Mike loved his work and vacationing with his wife and kids. He enjoyed running with his dog and construction projects around the house. Mike was very proud of his 1965 Gulf Stream Blue Mustang Convertible that he restored with his father. Mike was able to fight his battle and have more time with his family due to the efforts of the UPMC Cancer Center, with special thanks to his oncologist Dr. Goel and his nurse Deb. Any donations can be made in Mike’s name to the American Cancer Society focusing on liver cancer and research. Family and friends received Wednesday, January 24, from 2-9 PM at the Warchol Funeral Home, Inc., 3060 Washington Pike, Bridgeville (412-221-3333), where a service will be held on Thursday, January 25, at 1 PM. Full military honors will be held at the National Cemetery of the Alleghenies at 2:30 PM.