Rhoda M. Benzer

RHODA M. BENZER (nee Niksch), age 86, passed away February 10, 2017. Rhoda was born on December 26, 1930 to her late parents, Herman and Anna (nee Graf) Niksch. Rhoda married her, now deceased, husband Earl Benzer on June 10, 1952.
Rhoda is survived by her children, Dena (Jeff) Hertel, Franklin Lakes, NJ, Daniel (Karen) Benzer, Chesterton, and Dale Benzer; grandchildren, Kristin and Katelyn Hertel, Megan, Jacob and Samantha Benzer, Justin Benzer; great grandson, Gabriel Benzer, sisters-in-law, Leola Niksch and Nancy Niksch, and many nieces and nephews.

Rhoda loved her family, her Pastor Fredric Lams and her entire church family. She often referred to herself as a "farmer's daughter", happily growing up on her parents' farm. She graduated from Portage High School where she was active in GAA especially basketball and 4H. She enjoyed her jobs at Krogers, A&P, Wiseway and many years at the Lake County Republican Central Committee Headquarters. Rhoda happily served the City of Hobart as a member of the HIEDC Association, and as a precinct committeeman for many years. She was also a member of the Marie Reiner Senior Center. Rhoda was a beloved member of Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church in Hobart.

Rhoda is predeceased by her brothers and sisters, Robert (Lucille) Niksch, Roxie (Lavern) Blackman, Ralph Niksch, Ruth (John) Glova, and Raymond Niksch.

Memorial contributions are preferred to Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church.

Our family wishes to thank the wonderful staff at the VNA Hospice Center in Valparaiso.

A funeral service will be Friday, February 17, 2017 at 10:00 a.m. at Grace Evangelical Church, 6240 Grand Blvd., Hobart, with Rev. Fredric Lams officiating. Burial will follow at Hobart Cemetery. Visitation will be Thursday, February 16, 2017 from 4-8 p.m. at Rees Funeral Home, Hobart Chapel, 600 W. Old Ridge Rd., (219) 942-2109 or go online at www.reesfuneralhomes.com.