Louis M. “Louie” Benko, 76, of Richfield, MN dies

Louis M. “Louie” Benko, 76, of Richfield, MN died on Sunday, March 16, 2014 at his home.  He was born September 7,1937 in Ely to Louis and Ann (Skala) Benko and raised here.
Louie was a retired Wayzata Public Schools principal. He loved to golf, fish and spend time at his “Happy Place”-the cabin in Ely, with family and friends. He loved woodworking and was everyone’s handyman.
He was preceded in death by his first wife, Mary, and his parents, Ann and Louis Benko.
He is survived by his wife Joan; children: Stacy (John Heutmaker) Kroeplin, Karri (Jeff) Roy and Kyle Benko. Stepchildren: Simone Lassi, Lori (Tim) Rathje, Greg (Lisa) Lassi and Mary Jo (Mike) Elliott. Grandchildren: Jake, Mackenzie, Madison, Macy, Miles, Bailey, Alexandra, Gregory, Tara, John, Peter and David. Brother Joseph (Mary) Benko and sister Mary Ann (Bob) Pinckney, other relatives and friends. Memorial Mass of Christian Burial, Friday, March 21 at at 10:30 at St. Peter’s Catholic Church, 6730 Nicollet Ave. Visitation one hour prior to the Mass. Thank you to Fairview Southdale Hospital, Edina, MN, the Infusion Center and to Dr. Nashawaty and his staff for all of their care and support for Louie. Memorials may be directed to the American Cancer Society.