WLKM Radio 95.9 FM
Richard G. “Dick” Benne, DVM, age 93, of Sturgis, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, at Thurston Woods Village in Sturgis. He was born December 11, 1932, in Manhattan, Kansas, to Erwin J. and Gladys E. (Meyer) Benne.
Dr. Benne practiced veterinary medicine for 30 years in the LaGrange area as a founding partner of LaGrange Animal Hospital. He was well known for his dedication to his work and the relationships he built with farmers and families throughout the community. In later years, he compiled many of his experiences into a book, Memories of a Barnyard Veterinarian, preserving stories from a lifetime of practice.
Richard was active in the LaGrange Rotary Club and the LaGrange First United Methodist Church. He gave generously of his time, serving terms on the town board, the hospital board, and as a mentor to local youth. For decades, he and his wife participated in international exchange programs, welcoming more than 35 guests from around the world into their home and introducing them to the LaGrange area. He was a lifelong farmer, remaining involved in agriculture through Benne Farm Services in Sturgis. For many years, he helped lead the Miracle of Birth tent at the St. Joseph County Grange Fair in Centreville.
On July 2, 1955, in Oxford, Michigan, he married Errol S. Campbell. They shared 70 years of marriage, and she survives in Sturgis.
Also surviving are four daughters, Lorre (Chris) Davis of Fort Wayne, Pam (Brent) Kirk of Portland, Oregon, Marcie (Michael Sylvester) Benne of Portland, Oregon, and Megan (Herb) Wagner of Moreland, Georgia; seven grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and a brother, Max (Beverley) Benne of Sturgis.
He was preceded in death by his parents and a daughter, Linda Benne.
Visitation was held on Friday, February 13, 2026, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Frurip-May Funeral Home in LaGrange.
Funeral services were held Saturday, February 14, 2026, at 10 a.m. at LaGrange First United Methodist Church.
Burial took place in Greenwood Cemetery in LaGrange.
