Wilber Dwain Benedict was born June 13, 1951 and passed away on September 12, 2024. He passed after a brief battle with cancer at home with his niece Jamie, great niece Abigail, and nephew Blake, along with friends, surrounding him.
Wilber was the life of any gathering with his Australian accent and love of life. His funny "sayings" and stories of his life in Australia were always the main topic of conversation. He loved wildlife and would enjoy sitting outside to watch all the bunnies and squirrels and laugh at how "friendly" they were.
Wilber was a family man and loved talking about his children and his love of almost 29 years. He was so excited to be home and rekindle friendships and relationships with family, but missed his family at home dearly.
Wilber was born to Myron "Benny" and Colleen Plummer Benedict in Forest City, MO. Wilber Joined the Army in February of 1970. He served in Vietnam from June 1970 to September of 1971. In 1971 he transferred to the Army reserve and was honorably discharged in February of 1976. Wilber went to Australia on R&R and loved it, He decided to move and make Australia home, he stayed in Australia for 48 years. While there he had numerous jobs, he ran a dozier, he worked in the mines and drove a semi to name a few. He also owned his own business with his tractor and digger. He was proud of all the travels he had been on and the folks he met along the way.
Wilber was proceeded in death by both parents and numerous family members. Survivors include his children, Adam (Megan) Andrews and their son Caden of Australia, and Kate (Will) Reid of Australia; his "better half," Sharon Copper and their two children, Megan Cooper and Daniel Cooper; his Aunt Pauleen Kurtz of Mound City; his brothers, Darrell (Robin) Benedict of Oregon, Justin (Maureen) Benedict of St Joseph, Jeff Benedict of Iola, KS, and Matthew Benedict of Plattsburg; sisters Kathy and Patti Benedict of Atalla, AL; and numerous nieces, nephews, family and friends.
No services are planned at this time.
