Robert Benda, Jr.

Robert Benda Jr., 85, of Prague, passed away at his home on Aug. 8, 2022.

Robert, son of Robert, Sr. and Verna Benda, was born on March 28, 1937. He grew up on a farm northeast of Raeville. He attended School at St. Bo­naventure's Catholic School in Raeville until the eighth grade and attended high school at St. John's Catholic School in Petersburg, graduating in 1956. He enlisted in the Navy serving from 1957 until 1960.

On July 27, 1957, he was married to Joan Koch at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Petersburg. The couple had six children: Keith of Lin­coln, Laurene (John) Veik of Petersburg, Lisa (Warren) Eley of North Rich­land Hills, TX, Linette (Billy) Pelster of Petersburg, Kevin Benda of Day­ton, OH and Kirk Benda of Phoenix, AZ. Robert and Joan were divorced after 24 years of marriage.

Robert married LeeAnn Meinecke of Grand Island. From this union, Robert had three more children: Tiffanni Benda of Prague, Ashley (Chris) Kellis of Costa Mesa, CA and Robbie Benda of Prague.

He is survived by his nine children and 15 grandchildren: Justin Veik of Omaha, Alesha Veik Cornejo of Chandler, AZ, Keaton and Casey Eley of Mesa, AZ, Sara Eley of Keller, TX, Jared Eley of Phoenix, AZ, Morgan Pelster of Petersburg, Alex Pelster of Omaha, Ryan Pelster of Petersburg, Kayleigh, Gemma, Caleb, Holly and Isaiah of Prague; brothers Noel and Dave (Cookie) Benda of Petersburg, along with many nieces and nephews.

Robert was preceded in death by his parents, Robert, Sr. and Verna Ben­da, sister Koreen Benda, second wife LeeAnn Benda and sister-in-law Judy Benda.

A private graveside service officiated by Deacon John Starman will be at St. Bonaventure Cemetery at Raeville. . Military rites will be conducted by the Petersburg American Legion Post 334.

Levander Funeral Home is assisting the family with ar­rangements.