Benzel:( b. Feb 26, 1919, d. May 14, 2004) "Lawrence W. Benzel, age 85, a lifelong resident of Ritzville, died on May 14, 2004 in Ritzville, WA. Born on Feb 26, 1919 to Henry and Anna Benzel, immigrants from Kolb, Russia, Larry grew up on the family farm near Marcellus and then near Ralston, attended the Ralston School ,graduating from Ritzville High School in 1936. While in high school, he worked for Dave Hoefel at the Ford dealership. Attended Kinman Business University in Spokane,returned to work in the Ford dealership where he worked until he was one of the first Adams County men drafted into the Army in 1941. Served in the 1st Armored Division in North Africa and Italy during WW II, discharged in 1945. Larry married Alma Ils in 1945 and began working for Gearhart Ford Sales in Ritzville… Larry is survived by Allie, his wife of 59 years and his three sons and their families: Brian and Cynthia Benzel of Spokane, their children, Melissa Fleener and husband Clay, and the first great-grandchild Madeline and Todd Benzel; Bruce and Vicki Benzel of Ritzville, and their children Ryan and Kimberly; and Tom Benzel of Cheney, and his children Mark, Keri and Sarah. Larry is also survived by three sisters, Dorothy Eckhardt and Shirley Klein, both of Ritzville and Ilene Ellsworth of Indianapolis, IN; one brother, Everett, of Colorado Springs, Colorado. Four brothers, Fred, Art, Victor and Melvin and a sister, Esther McRae preceded him in death. Services will be held at Zion Congregational Church in Ritzville at 11 a.m. May 20, 2004. Vault interment with military honors will follow. The Rev Sandy Sparks will officiate at both services. Danekas Funeral Home, Ritzville, is in charge of arrangements." (Spokesman Review excerpt: 5-19-2004)(NTS)