DONALD LEE Passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family on July 21, 2012. He was preceded in death by his wife of 53 years, Eula Ray Benge. He is survived by his four children: daughters Sharron Benge-Hartley and spouse Michael, of Waxahachie, Texas, Tina Roxan Benge Anderes and spouse Robert, of Arlington, Texas, Holly Benge Bernal and spouse German, of Mallorca, Spain; and son, Michael Ray Benge and spouse Debra, of Cherry Hills Village Colorado. Don was born on July 29, 1928 in Norman, Oklahoma to Utley Benge and Roxis Lee Poulk. Don is also survived by his sisters Mary Melin and Martha Burke and his grandchildren Candice, Kirsten, Reagen, Kathleen, Allison, Rachel, Ryan, Avery, Mark and Alex. Don graduated from Albuquerque High School and attended the University of New Mexico, where he was a member of the Kappa Sigma Fraternity. Don proudly served his country in the Coast Guard for two years. In 1951, Don was married to Ray in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Shortly after their marriage they moved to Jamaica where Don oversaw the installation of a major rail line across the Jamaican jungle. They returned to live in Hobbs, New Mexico for four years where Don worked as the City Engineer and Director of Public Works, before moving to El Paso, where they lived for 23 years raising their family. Don worked for Border Steel and later became Vice President of Engineering and Fabrication and also served as Alderman at large for the city of El Paso from 1971 to 1973. In the early eighties he moved to Waxahachie, Texas where his new company had installed a rebar coating line and fabrication shop. Don, a pioneer in the steel industry, had a long and notable career and he is credited with building one of the largest privately held rebar fabrication and epoxy coating companies in the country. After the successful sale of his companies in 2008, Don was able to spend more time pursuing his love of horse racing. Amongst his horses, A.U. Miner and Wise River were invited to race in the prestigious Breeders Cup on two separate occasions. Don was a licensed pilot, a member of the National Ski Patrol, an avid traveler and staunchly dedicated to his family. He was a strong and loving husband, father, and friend. Together, Don and Ray shaped the lives of not only their family but all who came to know them well. Don's life is a true example of the results of hard work and dedication. He provided for his family in innumerable ways while reminding all that life was worth celebrating and sharing with the people you love most. Don's love of family was unparalleled and his generosity has no end. He will be greatly missed but in his absence he leaves a profound legacy not often seen. He was a member of St. Paul Episcopal Church, Waxahachie, Texas. A memorial service will be held on July 28, 2012 at ten o'clock in the morning. In lieu of flowers, please make donations in the name of Don L. Benge to St Paul Episcopal Church, 624 Ovilla Road, Waxahachie, Texas 75165 or Enlisted Education Grants Coast Guard Foundation, 394 Taugwonk Road, Stonington, CT 06378.
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