Clifford Clinton ("Tip") Benzing
From family group page by Annette Meeuwes:
Abel and Emma made their home at several locations in and around the Hersey area and settled on a farm in the Cat Creek area, now known as 155th Ave. All the children were born in Hersey except Clifford who was born in Illinois.
"Former Reed City Chief of Police Beecher Benzing dies at age 79
HERSEY -- Former Reed City Chief of Police Beecher R. Benzing, 79, of Hersey, died Friday, Oct 4, 1985, at Butterworth Hospital in Grand Rapids.
He was born Nov 20 1905 in Hersey, and attended the Cat Creek and Hersey schools.
Benzing was married Aug 30, 1930, to Lydia Weinrich, who preceded him in death June 28, 1985.
He was a Detroit policeman between 1929-54 and served as a Reed City policeman before becoming chief from 1955-66.
He was a member of the Detroit Police Relief Society, the Retired Detroit Police and Firefighters Association, Michigan Sheriffs Association, Detroit Police Officers Association, Northwestern Law Enforcement Association, and Michigan Association of the Blind.
He was affiliated with Trinity Lutheran Church in Reed City.
In his later years, Mr. Benzing composed poetry for special friends and occasions as a pastime.
He is survived by two sons, Richard of Phoenix, AZ, and Robert of Clarkston; one daughter Mrs. Ken (Kay) McCourt of Rochester; one sister, Grace Haist of Boyne City; eight grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.
Preceding him in death was his wife, three sisters and four brothers.
Services were Tuesday at Trinity Lutheran Church in Reed City with the Rev. Richard Krugler officiating. Burial will be in Hersey Village Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to Leader Dogs for the Blind or Trinity Lutheran Church.
Arrangements were made by McDowell Funeral Home."