John William Benz, of Westville, formerly of Gross Pointe and Marquette, Mich., died Saturday, Nov. 6 at his home.

He was born May 14, 1966 in Gross Pointe, Mich., the son of Edward and Mary Frances (Weber) Benz, who survive in Gross Pointe.

On May 9, 1992, he married Kelly Hubinger, who survives.

He is also survived by a brother, Brian Benz of Gross Pointe; two sisters, Bridget Benz Sundahl of St. Louis, Mo. and Elizabeth Benz Hildebrand of Portland, Ore.

He received his B.A. from Northern Michigan University, then received his Merchant Mariners License and currently served as First Mate aboard the Horseshoe Casino. He was a member of the Great Lakes Captains’ Association and will be fondly remembered for his love of boating, sailing, fishing, traveling, zest for living and joy he brought to so many people.

Following cremation at Angelcrest Crematory at Moeller Funeral Home, Valparaiso, a memorial service will be at 11 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 11 at St. Paul’s on the Lake Catholic Church in Gross Pointe Farms and at 11 a.m., Saturday, Nov. 13 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Otis.

Memorials may be made to the Pancreatic Cancer Association (PANCAN), 2221 Rosencrans Ave., Suite 131, El Segundo, CA 90245.

Posted 11/8/2004