Gary Wayne Benak Sr.

The family of Gary Wayne Benak Sr., of Lincoln Park, is saddened to announce his passing on Friday, August 25, 2023 at the age of 76 years.

Beloved husband of Elizabeth Benak. Loving father of Gary Benak Jr., Michael (Debra) Benak, the late Mandy Lynn Benak, and Lea-ann Terrance. Proud grandfather of Joseph (Patty) Schlick, Ian (Amber) Benak, Robert Benak, Marissa (Tim) Stone, Moriah (Brittany) Benak, Brian Terrance, Veronica (Ray) Printup, and Erian McQueen Jr. Caring great-grandfather of Jenna Schlick, Connor Schlick, Jayce Benak, Gwen Benak, Lily Stone, Guy Stone, Violet Benak, Abigail Printup, Violet Printup, Aubrey McQueen, and Erian McQueen III.

Gary was born on November 23, 1946 in Ontario, Canada to the late Robert and Gladys Benak. He was the oldest of 3 children and is survived by many nieces and nephews.

Gary worked hard his entire life and found enjoyment in a hard day's work. He was a committed employee for 42 years as a brick layer for Great Lakes Steel, which later became US Steel. There was rarely a day he missed, and Gary was often referred to as being a work-a-holic. His work ethic was strong at home as well. He took great pride in keeping his home and yard looking nice.

Gary lived life to the fullest. An activity he loved to do regularly was cooking. He could make anything you could think of, and it was always delicious. Homemade French fries were one of his specialties. Gary loved putting vinegar on his food, even on his eggs. He would tell people that his love for vinegar was the Canadian in him. Gary was known for his storytelling. He found pleasure in spinning a story about the many years he coached baseball for his boys. Baseball was in his blood. He loved coaching, watching his grandkids play, and watching it on TV. Good sportsmanship was top priority no matter the age of any kid or adult.

Family meant everything to Gary. The time he spent with Elizabeth meant the world to him. Las Vegas was the special place they enjoyed visiting together. They went every year until he couldn't travel anymore. Gary loved his kids and grandkids. He was a family-man through and through. Chocolate trips to the store for his great-grandchildren were a regular occurrence and there was nothing that he wouldn't do for his grandchildren.

Gary will be sincerely missed by his family and friends.

Visitation will be on Friday, September 1, 2023  1:00 - 8:00 PM at Solosy Funeral Home.

Visitation will continue on Saturday, September 2, 2023 10:00 AM until time of Funeral Service 11:00 AM.

Interment will follow at Michigan Memorial Park Cemetery.