Walter “Peewee” Benedict, 80 went to Heaven on September 10, 2021.
The most important thing Walt would tell you is how his life was forever changed when Jesus Christ found a home in his heart. At that moment, Walt entered into a relationship where he met authentic Love. By the mercy and grace of God he became a new man.
Walt’s eyes sparkled when new Life filled him and led him into amazing encounters. This life of adventure took him across the globe to share his skills and mentor others. Walt also had the joy of pouring out tangible provision with kindness, compassion and hope to inner city neighborhoods of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.
Walt lived a life of gratitude and generosity. Not only did he welcome people into his life and heart but also opened his home to host weary travelers, share meals and gather friends.
Walt was President of his 1958 High School graduating class at William Penn in his hometown of Harrisburg. After graduation, he went to college in California before entering the United States Army in 1962. Walt received an honorable discharge in 1968.
He enjoyed sports from the time he was young and excelled in many, especially bowling. Walt was inducted into the Greater Harrisburg USBC Hall of Fame. He rolled his first 300 in 1979 and his second 300 game in 1981. Walt rolled an 800 series in 1980, which was only the third 800 series rolled in Pennsylvania as of that time.
Notable careers for Walt included 35 years with UPS as a truck driver; owner of Amber Inn motel for 10 years; volunteer for 13 years with Harrisburg Food Ministry; and most recently, Walt enjoyed working at East Bay Golf Course in Tampa Bay Florida.
Walt is survived by his beloved wife of 37 years, Debra (Griswold) Benedict. Walt has three precious daughters from a prior marriage: Victoria Millard, Bridget Cooper and Jennifer Benedict, along with grandchildren, great grandchildren, extended family and many friends. His parents, Walter F. and Evelyn (Diffenbaugh) Benedict and brother, Allen R. Benedict preceded him in death.
In honor of Walt’s life, donations can be sent to:
Vision Beyond Borders @ www.visionbeyondborders.org
“We live with a joyful confidence, yet at the same time we take delight in the thought of leaving our bodies behind to be at home with the Lord. So whether we live or die we make it our life’s passion to live our lives pleasing to Him.”
2 Corinthians 5:8-9 (The Passion Translation Bible)
This is a beautiful life story. He touched many lives and will be greatly missed by those who knew and loved him.
Did not know Walt that well he came to our church I would say three months ago but him and his wife were diligent about praying with us on Saturday morning. He will be greatly missed by the prayer team and blessings and condolences to Deborah.
I’m sorry uncle Walt we always will remember the trips to Hershey Park and swimming the summer away never forget the time you were grilling us food and the glass blew off the grill
Many happy memories. Many ways he touched our lives, family and beyond. It is comforting to know it is not goodbye, but see you later. Mike and I sending prayers and hugs Deb and to his daughters as well
I wish I had gotten to know this man better, but will look forward to seeing him in heaven. I know him through his lovely, faith filled wife. Deborah. Their story is a beautiful example of a Christian marriage. God rest his soul until we are all reunited in the kingdom.
When we think of Walt it is always positive. Walt was happy and consistent in his attitude and personality. Peaceful, generous and open. Walt and Debra always had an open door and shared what they had as though entertaining Jesus. The Lords presence was on Walt and we know He is with the Lord face to face.
I will never forget Walt and my times together. He was a wonderful friend who encouraged me in life’s bumps. He was a great companion and roommate on our mission adventures. I still share our times walking in foreign lands and drinking coffee and mango juice in the hotel dining room, before anyone else was up and about. What a friend! My prayers are with all of his family as they begin their journey without his sparkling eyes and cleaver wit to encourage them along life’s path. Indeed our loss is Heaven’s gain.
Good bye for a while my Tile Fairy Buddy, My Roomie, and most of all My Friend.
Bill
Walt will be remembered as a devoted man of God!! Blessings Deborah you are in our prayers!!
Walt was a wonderful man that loved Jesus with all his heart and he loved people. He cared about the things God cared about. He and Deborah were a wonderful team and a great testimony of God’s love through his people. I wish I would have had more time with him because of his influence in so many lives inspires me. I thank God for you and look forward to seeing you again soon. Deborah, our prayers are with you. You are much loved and appreciated!
I am so grateful that I had the
Opportunity to know Walt since he and Debbie moved to Florida. Not only was he a good friend,
he always made you feel like family. I will miss him very much. RIP my good friend.
I will always have you in my prayers. And I will also pray for Debbie..
Our family has truly been blessed to have been able to know Walt and Deb as friends and neighbors these last few years. Walt was truly one of the sweetest, kindhearted and giving person we’ve known. Just like his sweet dear wife Deb. God’s strength and grace to you Deb and his daughters. Happy trails with Jesus Walt..until we meet again..
Walt was an amazing man and enjoyed life. We had so much fun when we got together and we will cherish those moments. Our door is always open Deb if you want to come visit and just hang out! We will sorely miss Walt! Praying a supernatural peace over you and your home Deb!
Love you!
Brian & Maggie
Jerry & I so enjoyed our times with Walt & Deb, visiting them both in their PA & FL homes. Such a gift of hospitality they both had when we visited, always willing to take a few minutes and pray when there was a need to do so. There was always so much joy when we all got together. So have many beautiful memories. We will miss dear Walt but looking forward to seeing him at a heavenly reunion.
We will always remember Walt’s witty sense of humor, his infectious laugh. He exhibited godly characteristics in his gentleness towards the hurting, his kindness towards those in need and his generosity spirit in helping those on the mission field. Love you Walt. Til we meet again.
We are very sorry to hear of Walt’s passing! We are praying for family and friends who are grieving the loss of this special soul! Our hearts go out to all of you, especially you, Deb! May God Bless You in this time of loss! We were hoping to see you soon … after we missed seeing you due to COVID when we were down this past spring. Love and Prayers!