Obituaries 11 May 2026

Michael Robert Benner

Michael Robert Benner of Arizona, formerly of Greenfield, passed away May 4, 2026.

He was born Aug. 13, 1953 in Greenfield, the son of Robert and Kay Benner.

Michael graduated from McClain High School. He graduated from the UC College Conservatory of Music with a bachelor's degree in music, and later received a master's degree in choral conducting and music theory.
 
Michael was always involved in music programs in high school and spent his life conducting choral groups and teaching piano students. He was the music director and conductor of the Cincinnati King's Men Chorus for many years and a member of the Southwest Singers Chorus in Phoenix, Ariz. For the last 10 years, he was on the teaching staff at the Fine Arts School in Goodyear, Ariz.

Michael was a member of the First United Methodist Church. He loved people and enjoyed being with his sons, grandchildren and friends. He loved to travel, and a trip to Europe with his son was a highlight in his life.

He has two sons, Justin Michael (Christi) Benner and Courtney Thomas (Sandy) Benner. He was blessed with six grandchildren, Aubrey, Aiden, Asher, Evie, Beau and William Grant Benner. He was a brother to Susan Free and Scott Benner.

He was preceded in death by his dad, Robert Benner; and a brother, Brian Eugene Benner.

The family will have a graveside service.

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