November 13, 1951 – October 10, 2024
James J. Benz Jr Obituary
James John Benz Jr, born November 13, 1951- October 10, 2024.
James John Benz Jr, proud father of three children, 72, of Franklinville, NY, succumbed to his eight-year battle with cancer on October 10, 2024.
He was born in Springville, NY in 1951 to James and Gloria Benz, and was raised in East Otto, NY. Jim was educated at Cattaraugus School before becoming a truck driver by trade. After he retired, he worked delivering Meals on Wheels. He took pride in being able to back anything into a parking spot and give driving directions to anyone who needed them. He married his loving wife Jennie Lynn on February 14, 1991. He would do anything to support and care for his wife, children and grandchildren.
James was a loving father to Timothy (Judith) Benz, Tammy (Ronald) McCain, and Angela (Michael) Schuckhardt who dearly miss him and the life lessons he imparted to them. Among them was having patience. He would often say “Patience my child” to remind us.
He took great pride in being a “Papa” to his grandchildren Adaline James and Sophie Lynn Schuckhardt; children of Michael and Angela. Cierra Breanne and Gauge Allen McCain; children of Tammy and Ronald. As well as his soon to join us great grandson, Briggs Wade Muldoon, child of Cierra McCain. You would not be surprised to find “Papa” dressed up as whatever was his grandbabies favorite thing at the time. He has dressed as Winnie the Pooh, the Easter Bunny, Santa Claus and many more. However, their Papa’s favorite thing to do was take them for golf cart rides around his favorite place, Rainbow Lake. As soon as the girls would arrive at camp they would proudly exclaim “Papa, take us for a golf cart ride please!” and every time you would see the joy in his face. James shared his love of camping at Rainbow Lake with each of his children. When Tim and Tammy visit NY they would often stay at camp during their visit and he was excited to share this with Briggs.
James was preceded in death by parents James and Gloria Benz, and is survived by his loving and devoted wife Jennie Benz, his children: Tim (Judith) Benz, Tammy (Ronald) McCain, Angela (Michael) Schuckhardt, four grandchildren and is expecting a great grandson in December. He is also survived by his siblings; Diana (Ronald) Clabeaux, Wayne Benz, Art (Kathy) Benz, Deborra (Eugene) Doucette, and Tom Benz as well as countless nieces and nephews.
James was very clear to his children that he did not want to have a funeral or a service. He requested that a celebration be held at Rainbow Lake in East Otto, NY in the spring of 2025. There we will enjoy his favorite drinks and food and share our favorite memories. He was specific to tell us, he wanted us all to celebrate.
The family was assisted by the VanRensselaer & Son Funeral Home, 14 Church Street, Randolph, New York.
To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of James , please visit our Tree Store.
