Louis Platt Benedict

Louis Platt Benedict passed away peacefully in his home on October 27, 2023, at 91 years old. Louis was born on August 16, 1932, in Jerome, Arizona. His father’s mining job took the family to Lynchburg, Virginia where he spent his elementary and early high school years. Louis joined his mother and father across the globe in Johannesburg, South Africa where he ultimately graduated from high school. 

In 1952, he enrolled in the prestigious mining engineering program at the University of Arizona. Louis met the love of his life, Kay Wright, on a blind date while at U of A. The two were married on June 17, 1956, in Kay’s hometown of La Porte, Indiana. Louis then enlisted in the Airforce as a pilot and retired as Second Lieutenant. The Benedicts moved back to Tucson where Louis went to work for Western Machinery Co for 31 years. He even convinced his children that he dug the Grand Canyon with a “Michigan Loader” just for them.

The Benedict home of 60 years was in the Valley, but Louis’ heart was in Munds Park where the Benedicts constructed an A-frame cabin with all of their loving hands from 1973-1975. 

Louis loved fishing, hunting, golfing, and of course cheering on all of the Arizona sports teams. The dedication Louis had for his community was unmatched including his tremendous contributions to The Phoenix Thunderbirds, Homeward Bound, Foundation for Blind Children, and Valley Field Riding and Polo Club, where he was aptly known as “Lovable Lou.” Louis’ generosity was rivaled only by his profound sense of respect for all of those in need. He was tremendously
proud of the impact that all of these programs had throughout Arizona.

Louis showed his love through his extensive woodwork for his family and friends. They will always cherish the family crib, swings, tables, crosses, ornaments and nativity scenes which
Louis crafted with the utmost care.

Louis was a devoted husband, a gracious father, and an adoring grandfather and great grandfather. Louis is survived by his wife and best friend of 67 years, Kay, his son Jeff Benedict (Deborah), son-in-law Scott Eller, daughter Nancy Stevens (Scott), and daughter Diane Thurman (Shawn). He was preceded in death by his oldest daughter, Laura Benedict Eller. He is survived by 13 grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren, all who fondly knew him as their “RuRu.”

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to: Foundation for Blind Children 1234 E. Northern Ave. Phoenix, AZ 85020. https://seeitourway.org/

A celebration of Louis’ life will be held on Monday, November 20, 2023 at 11:00 A.M. at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, 3641 N. 56th Street, Phoenix, AZ 85018. The family encourages colorful attire as a way to pay tribute to Louis.  Condolences may be expressed at www.whitneymurphyfuneralhome.com.