William J. Benkowski

William J. Benkowski, 92, of Greensburg, died Monday, June 15, 2020 in Excela Health Latrobe Hospital.  He was born June 29, 1927 in Phoenixville, a son of the late Edward and Anna (Dohli) Benkowski.  Prior to retirement he had been employed by General Tire and Rubber for over 40 years.  Bill was a Navy veteran, serving as a pilot during World War II.  In 1974, he had developed two patents in salvaging polymer plastic scrap, both of which are still active to this day.  Bill was also an avid golfer, making a hole-in-one when he was in his 80’s.  He was a member of Blessed Sacrament Cathedral, Greensburg.  In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his wife, Roberta “Bobby” Benkowski in 2017; and his son-in-law, Jim Rule in 2017.  He is survived by two daughters: Marianne Powell and husband Jerry, of Ohio, and Susan Rule, of Greensburg; two grandchildren, Jim Rule and wife Devin, and Natalie Rule and Ken Loughner, of Latrobe; four great-grandchildren who he most enjoyed, Liam, Jaxon, Dylan, and Harper; his twin-brother, Edward Benkowski and wife Joan, of San Francisco, Calif.; and several nieces and nephews.  Honoring Bill’s request, all services and interment are private.  LEO M. BACHA FUNERAL HOME, INC., 516 Stanton Street, Greensburg is in charge of arrangements.  In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in memory of William Benkowski to the University of Virginia Cancer Research Division, Gift Processing Services, P.O. Box 400331, Charlottesville, VA 22904.  The family would like to thank Bill’s caregivers and the staff at the UPMC Hillman Cancer Center at the Arnold Palmer Pavilion for their kind and compassionate care.  www.bachafh.com

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