Hugh J. Benz

January 22, 1941 - July 14, 2018

Hugh J. Benz, age 77 of Batesville, died Saturday, July 14, 2018 at St. Andrew’s Health Campus. Born January 22, 1941 in Batesville, he is the son of Helen (Nee: Meyer) and Hugo Benz. He married Darla Fichtner September 2, 1974 at St. Louis Church. He was the purchasing agent for the Romweber Furniture Company and co-owner of the Beverage House liquor store in Greensburg as well as a member of the Batesville Knights of Columbus Council #1461. He is a former Grand Knight. Hugh had two passions: cars and airplanes. A long time Corvette club member, his 1961 and 2004 Corvettes were his babies. When he wasn’t in the driver’s seat, you’d find him in the pilot’s seat. Hugh had his pilot’s license forever according to Darla and was owner of Aero Associates. The company sold planes, flew charter service and taught flying lessons. Several years ago, he was able to check off a bucket list item that he thoroughly enjoyed and spoke of often. He and a close friend went to Alaska, booked a charter service to fly them into various regions of the state and experienced all that Alaska had to offer. He was also a proud Purdue Alumnus who enjoyed a cold Budweiser. Hugh was very close to his nieces and nephews and thought of them more as his children rather than nieces and nephews. He is survived by his wife Darla; sister Myra Miller of Mesa, Arizona as well as his nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he is also preceded in death by his sister Joan Doerflinger. Visitation is Friday, July 20th, from 9 – 11 a.m. at the funeral home. Funeral services follow at 11:30 a.m. at St. Louis Church with Rev. Stan Pondo Officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family requests memorials to the Batesville Knights of Columbus Scholarship Fund.