Donald Benjamin

Donald “Don” Shirle Benjamin, age 88, left for the big hunt on September 25, 2025 surrounded by his family. His spirit is carried on by his loving wife of 66 years, Carol; daughter Lori (Gordy) Fulton; son Randy (Karen) Benjamin; grandsons Jason (Tracy) Fulton, Eric Fulton (Melissa Hunter), Kyle Benjamin and Alex (Kory) Benjamin; great grandchildren Nevaeh Ostrander, Charlotte Fulton, Logan and Colt Fulton, Liam and Chloe Benjamin; great-great grandchildren Mateo Graciano and Malik Ostrander; sisters Doris Austin, Miriam White and many nieces and nephews; and very special friends Gregg and Janette Updyke.

Don spent most of his life in Saranac, MI. His early years were spent on his family’s farm just outside of town, working when he had to and hunting and fishing when he could. Soon, he met Carol and started a family. As the years went on, Don became versed in many careers but ultimately decided that entrepreneurship suited him best. Many local friends remember his factory, Saranac Finishing.

Outside of business, Don was an active member or contributor to many organizations including the Ionia County Fishing and Hunting Club, Michigan United Conservation Club, EightCAP, Saranac Village and Township Boards, the Lions Club, Bertha Brock Park, the Republican Party, and many, many others. His proudest community accomplishment, however, was the creation of the Saranac Bridge Fest — an event he oversaw for years and continued to help with long after.

Over the years, Don tried his best to impart his wisdom onto his four grandsons. As they grew, he would use many sayings to do this, like: “If you want to get a job done, you’ll find a way, if you don’t you’ll find an excuse,” “Keep it straight and level,” or “Watch out for the hoyyah.” Today, those words are still used by the men they’ve become, and even their friends find themselves quoting Don’s wisdom. All people die, but not all truly live. Don lived a full life, accomplishing so much, and kept working in his yard right up until the end. Don will be cremated, with further details to be announced in the future. 

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