Donald Benning

• By YS News Staff
• Published: October 19, 2017

• 2 Comments

On Sept. 15, 2017, at 12:02 a.m., Donald Edward Benning passed away peacefully in his sleep. He was 83 years old.

Affectionately known as “Donny Boy” and “Baines” to his longtime friends and family, his life began in Yellow Springs July 16, 1934. He was the seventh child born to Chester and Helen Benning. Don is survived by his eldest brother, Charles Benning; his son and daughter-in-law, Duncan Benning and Rebecca Zapien; and his two grandchildren, Camilla and Benito, all of whom reside in Tucson, Ariz. In addition to his parents, Don was preceded in death by his siblings Chester, Andy, Neil, Bonnie and Simmie.

Don was a beloved father, grandfather, sibling, uncle and friend to many throughout the community of Yellow Springs and beyond. He graduated from Bryan High School in 1953, was an Air Force veteran, an avid cyclist and photographer, and he loved to shoot pool. His love of music and being outdoors could often be seen in his pictures.

Don worked at Antioch College, Montgomery County Health Department, the Transportation Security Administration and briefly as a professional photographer. No matter where he worked, Don always seemed to find lasting friendships and meaningful stories.

An informal reception of remembrance will be held on Sunday, Oct. 22, at Central Chapel AME Family and Life Center from 2 to 4 p.m., and a more formal gathering will be held July 2018; details to follow.

Please consider a donation to the Glen Helen Nature Preserve or the ACLU in place of flowers.

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2 Responses to “Donald Benning”

1. Don Landes says:

   November 27, 2020 at 6:51 pm

   Brother Baines:

   I am so glad I saw you when I came for the reunion in August 2017. I miss seeing you and hearing your stories, updating me on the haps around Yellow Springs. And I am glad I saw you in California a few years ago. When I come back to YSO next year it won’t be the same without you. If I ever make it to Tucson I will say hello to your son Duncan, who I held in my arms when he was a tiny guy…. much love and respect, brother Cab

2. benito benning says:

   December 11, 2019 at 5:35 pm

   he ma grandpa