SPARTA - It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Dean Douglas Benedict, who departed this life peacefully on October 27, 2026, at the age of 93. Born on November 12, 1932, in Sparta, WI to William and Gladys (Merow) Benedict. Dean lived a life defined by quiet strength, fierce loyalty and a love of family.
As a student, Dean worked at his family’s store, Benedict’s Grocery, on North Water Street in Sparta. He lettered in baseball in high school, beginning a love of the game that stayed with him throughout his life. He graduated from Sparta High School in 1950 and married his high school sweetheart, Marlene Olson, in November 1953. Drafted into the Navy in 1956, he served as a teletype operator on Scaggs Island, California, until his discharge in 1959. He was proud of his Naval service. After returning from California, he worked at the JC Penney store in downtown Sparta from 1960 to 1989.
When the store closed, Dean retired, but he still wanted to stay busy. His work for the City of Sparta included 35 years as an umpire for men’s and women’s softball, mowing at the golf course, and serving as a school bus driver and bus aide. Dean loved his time on the bus and deeply cared for all the kids.
Beyond his work career, his true passion lived in the everyday moments of being with his family. Special moments included family camping trips to Hatfield or the family cabin in Spooner, snowmobile trips and being in the Trailblazers Snowmobile Club (he was a founding member and the first President), golfing, grilling on Sundays, and spending time with his family and grandchildren; where he attended all of their sporting events.
He loved his Milwaukee Brewers and Green Bay Packers. He was so excited about the Brewers being in the World Series, he passed away one day before seeing them win it all, but we are thinking he had a front row seat with Ueck and JD to watch it from Heaven.
Dean was a dedicated husband to Marlene, his loving wife of 65 years and devoted father to his daughter, Julie. He was a proud grandfather to two grandchildren, Caroline and James-Dean (JD). To the world, he was Mr. B or Mr. JC Penney; but to us, he was simply the best dad and grandfather you could wish for – our anchor, our steady hand, and our safest place to land. He taught us the value of a hard day’s work, how to never give up, and to show up for the people you love.
Dean is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Julie and Jim Olson; his granddaughter, Caroline Olson; his sister, Beverly Laufenberg; and his sisters-in-law, Jackie Flock, Dora Olson, and Hariett Benedict. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and extended family members who adored him.
Dean was preceded in death by his wife, Marlene Benedict; his beloved grandson, James-Dean (JD) Olson; and his parents, William and Gladys Benedict. He was also preceded in death by his brothers, Robert John (who died in infancy), James, William (Bid), Carl, and David Benedict. His sisters and brothers-in-law who preceded him in death were Larry Laufenberg, Elaine Benedict, Rita Benedict, Edith Benedict, Carl and Phylis Olson, Richard Olson, Clint and Diane Betts, and Wayne Flock.
Dean’s guidance, kindness and love will remain forever etched in the hearts of everyone lucky enough to know him.
Our family would like to thank Mary at AGrace Hospice for the kindness and care she gave Dean. We also thank the entire staff at the Morrow Home for taking such great care of him this past year. We extend our gratitude to Dr. Woodward and Mayo Clinic, and to Lanham Schanhofer Funeral Home & Cremation.
Per Dean’s wishes, there will be no funeral or visitation, he only wanted a party to celebrate (as he said we’ve had enough sadness in our lives). A small, private burial will be held in the spring for Dean & Marlene next to their grandson, JD.
A Celebration of Dean’s life will be held on Saturday, November 7, 2026, from 1-4 pm at the Sparta American Legion. Please wear your Milwaukee Brewer attire and we can celebrate Dean’s life and his Brewers winning the World Series. We hope you can come and share a happy memory and a toast in his honor.
Online condolences may be offered at www.schanhoferfh.com.
Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home and Cremation, Sparta, is assisting the family with arrangements.
Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home and Cremation
