Howard Michael Benn

Howard Michael Benn was born in Chicago, Illinois on July 18, 1939. Howard passed away on April 13, 2022 in Swannanoa, North Carolina, after a five-year battle with prostate cancer.

Howard became a Master Tool and Die Designer/Maker and worked in Chicago, Lake Geneva, Wisconsin and Santa Monica, California. He was married to Madalyn Hill Benn, whom he met at a dating service (yes, they really do work sometimes) in Chicago on April 11, 1984. A year later, they moved to Santa Monica, California. They lived in Santa Monica for 22 years and were married on the third anniversary of their first date. They enjoyed every minute of their time in California. They sold their condo in 2007 and returned to Chicago. But, after 22 years of approximately 75 degree temperatures, they realized that Chicago was just too darn cold. Someone mentioned Asheville, which was totally off the grid for them. But, afterwards, they kept hearing about Asheville and decided somebody was telling them to check it out. They came to Asheville and fell in love with the area and moved into the Grove Arcade in downtown Asheville in 2010. They were blessed with many dear friends in this area and they were welcomed with open arms to Trinity Episcopal Church. After six years, they bought a precious home in Swannanoa, NC. What a wonderful move that was. So many dear friends in this area and so much love and support always. They were not blessed with children, but had a full and totally happy life together.

Howard’s parents, Anna and Albert Benn and his sister, Marilyn, and brother, Alan, have all predeceased him. He will be loved forever by so many – Madalyn’s whole family feels he is as much a part of the family as Madalyn. Special to Howard was Madalyn’s step-daughter, Kristi Scoville. Howard said to Madalyn recently – “Remember, we will be together again.”

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Trinity Episcopal Church, 60 Church Street, Asheville, NC 28801.

A Memorial Service is planned for 2 p.m. at Trinity Episcopal Church on Saturday, May 7, 2022.

Groce Funeral Home on Tunnel Road is assisting the family.